Is it not a fact that for some two years now the Commission have been suggesting to member Governments to propose integrated programmes to maximise the benefits they would receive from EC funds and is it not a fact that the Government have failed to present integrated programme proposals to the Commission which would increase by perhaps 20 per cent the funding available to this country from the Regional Fund? Is that fact not borne out by statements made by EC Commission officials in Ireland on recent visits? What is the Minister going to do to ensure we maximise our benefits?

I would make two comments on that. First of all, it is a separate question and, secondly, it is based on extremely doubtful if not false hypotheses.

This is the final supplementary.

The matter at issue can be submitted, if the Minister is not so aware, on the basis of an integrated programme to the European Community.

The question of an integrated programme is a separate matter.

It is not. I am asking the Minister if he would tell the House if the Department have submitted any proposals to the EC Commission under the integrated programme fund of the Regional Fund.

That seems to be a separate question.

We do not accept the supposition.

I am calling on the Minister to answer Question No. 6.