EIRE’S BREAK WITH CROWN

Ashburton Guardian, Volume 69, Issue 32, 17 November 1948, Page 5

EIRE’S BREAK WITH CROWN

EFFECT OF REPEALING OF ACT (Rec. 12.50 p.m.) LONDON, Nov, 16. An official communique issued after the conclusion of talks in Paris between the British Government, Commonwealth and Eireann representatives on Eire’s'break with the British Crown said: “The meeting discussed in the most friendly and constructive spirit practical means of continuing and, if possible, strengthening relations between the Governments of x\ustralia, Canada, New Zealand, the United Kingdom and Hire.” Meanwhile the Bill for repealing the External Relations Act in Eire was tonight placed on the Dail agenda for tomorrow 7 . The Bill is titled, “the Republic of Ireland Bill, 1948.” _ The meeting in Paris is believed to have discussed the findings of Crown law officers on the consequences of Eire leaving the Commonwealth. Detailed findings have not been f revealed, but it is known that they cover: (1) People born in Ireland and working in Britain and enjoying British status would become aliens, with all the consequences involved; (2) Eire would automatically lose her preferential trade position inside the Commonwealth .

A British spokesman _ before the meeting said the sole object of the meeting was to inform the Eire Ministers of law officers’ findings. There would be no discussion on the principle of Eire leaving the Commonwealth, and no pleading with her not to do so.