asked the Minister for Communications the cost of the appointment of consultants to investigate the affairs of RTE; the names of firms involved; and if RTE will be liable for the cost.

It would be contrary to settled practice in the case of Government contracts to disclose contract prices. The study, which was commissioned following receipt of competitive tenders, is being carried out by Stokes, Kennedy, Crowley, Management Consultants.

The cost of the study will be borne by RTE as the benefits of the study will accrue to that organisation and to their viewers and listeners.

This was a legitimate question asking the Minister about the cost of the appointment of consultants. The House has a right to know the cost of the study. RTE are carrying the cost of a study which they did not want. The Minister is imposing a charge on RTE which will have to be carried by the licence holders.

That is not a question.

The Minister is not answering the question. What is the cost of the consultancy?

It is not the practice to give contract prices.

We are spending taxpayers' money.

The Deputy can raise this matter on the Estimate.