Meeting of the Government 27 June, 1940

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Council Chamber

11 a.m. to 12.10 p.m.

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Note: This record follows closely lines indicated by the Taoiseach personally
M.M. 23/7/40

Communication from the British Government

The Taoiseach informed the Government of the contents of a communication which had been conveyed to him on the 26th June, 1940, by Mr. Malcolm MacDonald on behalf of the British Government. He said he had informed Mr. MacDonald that he was satisfied that the proposals contained in the communication could not be accepted, but that he would submit them to the Government.

The view which had been expressed to Mr. MacDonald by the Taoiseach was confirmed.

The Taoiseach said that Mr. MacDonald had suggested that some members of the Government might like to ask him questions about the matter whilst he was in Dublin. Arrangements were being made for a luncheon at which Mr. MacDonald would be a guest and the Taoiseach thought it would be well if one or two members of the Government, in addition to himself, were present at the luncheon, when he would inform Mr. MacDonald of the Government's decision. He was of opinion that there would be an advantage in Mr. MacDonald meeting members of the Government in addition to himself. He proposed, in this connection, the Ministers for Supplies and Co-ordination of Defensive Measures. This was agreed to.