The Minister was very pleased with the result of your démarche to Buckingham Palace, as reported in your minute of the 22nd November, concerning the question of messages from King George to Irish nationals.¹

As regard the last paragraph of Sir Alan Lascelles' letter, we agree with your view that we cannot very well object to the acknowledgment by King George of messages of personal condolence, congratulation, etc. We feel, however, that the time has come when an end should be put to the practice of sending such acknowledgments through this Department.² Perhaps, therefore, you would indicate to Sir Alan Lascelles that, in future, replies to this type of message might be sent direct from the Palace. Now that he knows our views on the whole matter, we think it is hardly necessary to require him to refer each case to your Office, but I am sure you could arrange with him to consult you about the advisability of replying to any message outside the purely personal category.