Handwritten note by Eamon de Valera shown to Malcolm MacDonald

Thursday

Shown to Mr. McD as the type of statement that would be useful. I kept this copy.

Saturday, March 12, 1938?

The Gov. of the U.K. declare that it is no part of the policy or intention of the Gov. of the U.K. to oppose any arrangement which may be freely and voluntarily entered into between the Gov. of Éire and the Gov. of N.I. The Gov. of the U.K. recognise that such an arrangement would be a valuable contribution to the friendly relations between G.B. and I. and to world appeasement. The Gov. of the U.K. will accordingly welcome every improvement in the mutual relations of Éire and N.I. and far from raising any difficulties will on the contrary be ready to take any practicable steps that may be necessary to facilitate any arrangement desired of the two parties Governments for the development of closer relations between them or for the establishment of a united Ireland.