Number 10 Press Briefing - 8 March Morning
The Green Investment Bank and the Syrian deputy oil minister's possible defection were among topics discussed at the 10 Downing Street press briefing.
Syrian Minister
Asked whether the PM had any reaction to the Syrian deputy oil minister’s defection, the PMS said that if the defection was confirmed, it was an important moment. The Assad regime has no legitimacy and we would urge others to step away from the regime.
Green Investment Bank
Asked what discussion there had been of Edinburgh as a suitable location for the Green Investment Bank, and whether the impending referendum on Scottish independence was a factor, the PMS there was a process to determine where to locate the Green Investment Bank. London and Edinburgh were the two bids. On Scottish independence, the Government’s view was that we were stronger together and would be arguing the case for Scotland to remain in the Union.
Asked whether the decision to locate the GIB in Edinburgh was a political one, the PMOS said that the two locations offered different strengths. Edinburgh offered specific expertise in the Green industry and asset management.
Wolf Whistling
Asked whether the Government was banning wolf whistling as part of action against domestic abuse and harassment, the PMOS said that the Government was not criminalising wolf whistling. We were focussed on tackling the serious issues of stalking, domestic abuse and harassment.