H.E. Mr. Dan Mulhall:

I think what I can do is explain the role and the work of the Embassy in London on the whole range of issues right across the spectrum, but it is not for me to articulate policy or to make judgments about the British Government. That is a matter for others. It is certainly not normal for an ambassador to comment publicly, positively or negatively, on the government of the country to which he or she is accredited. I am there as a representative of Ireland and am there to articulate Irish policies to a British audience and also to understand British positions and to inform my colleagues in Dublin, in the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, other Departments and ultimately Government on how I see the evolution of the situation in Britain as it affects our interests. I am not going to duck the issues but I wish to make clear the extent to which I can and cannot comment.