Following the visit of the Minister and the Taoiseach to the White House on St. Patrick's Day, will he indicate whether it is the view of the Goverment that they agree with President Reagan's recent analysis that continued support to the Contras is justified in order to ensure that there will be no Soviet expansion in Central America?

With the other countries in the Community, we agreed to differ from the United States in regard to their support of the Contras in Nicaragua.

I am glad to hear that unequivocal assertion from the Minister. Could he indicate when he proposes to convey that directly to the White House on behalf of the Government?

The White House is well aware of our attitude in that respect. As the Deputy and the House know, this is an American policy decision which is not only disapproved of by us but by all the countries within the European Community. In our view it is mistaken policy but there is very little we can do about it other than stating our policy.