asked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he will make a progress report on the work by officials of the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland Departments to define and agree the areas of common interest to be dealt with by the Council of Ireland ; and by what date he anticipates the work will be completed.

Officials from United Kingdom. Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland Departments have met to review possible areas of common interest, and further meetings will be held as required. It is too soon to say when studies will be completed.