A British response to the Government's demand for an inquiry into alleged collusion in the 1974 Dublin and Monaghan bombings is expected next week.
Taoiseach Bertie Ahern said he had raised the issue with British prime minister Tony Blair last Wednesday, but their discussions primarily concerned the European Council meeting.
"I told him that I expect the British position to be presented next week, when a full session of the British-Irish inter-governmental council will be held. I hope that they will co-operate and will change their stance. By doing so, they would make it much easier for the Government, the Oireachtas committee and the whole process. We have repeatedly stated our position and members have also. They understand the message from this House, which has entered their system."
Replying to a number of deputies, Mr Ahern said the Cabinet was not pre-empting matters, because he would have to report back if the answer was "no".
He added that they would then have to ask the Attorney General for legal advice on implementing further steps.
