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<p>Contact with the Irish government takes place regularly at all levels. This reflects
the close relationship which we now enjoy with the Government of Ireland and the Irish
people. Discussions cover all issues, including the impact that the British Government’s
proposals for reform will have on Ireland, our closest neighbour and friend. Most
recently the Minister of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, my right hon.
Friend the Member for Aylesbury (Mr David Lidington), visited Dublin on 26 May for
consultations on EU reform; the first visit he made after his reappointment following
the general election.</p><p>This Government intends to seek reforms in the EU which
will benefit not just the UK but all Member States. The Prime Minister, my right hon.
Friend the Member for Witney (Mr Cameron), is confident that he can and will succeed
in negotiating to reform the European Union and maintain Britain’s position within
it. The Prime Minister will meet the Taoiseach for their annual Summit on 18 June
which will provide another opportunity for an exchange of views.</p><p> </p>
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