asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether certain surveyors of taxes in this country have been loaned to the Irish Free State by the British Government and are now in the employment of the Irish Free State; how many of such surveyors of taxes there are; and whether any of these men who desire to be relieved of their present employment and to return to their employment in this country will be allowed to do so?

As from the 6th December, 1922, 13 inspectors of taxes and one assistant inspector were lent to the Irish Free State Government. The period of loan has already terminated in the case of two of the inspectors, and the remainder will be withdrawn as circumstances permit.

How long will that be the case?

Until the Free State are able to supply men for the work which I hope will be at no distant date.