Number 10 Press Briefing - Morning For 5 July 2011
From the Prime Minister's spokesperson on: Afghanistan, Phone Hacking and North Sea Tax Allowances.
Afghanistan
Asked what was meant by the PM having spoken frankly, The PMOS said this speaks for itself.
Asked for further detail about the political track, the PMOS explained that progress had been made on the military side but we now need to look at governance issues, the Kabul Bank, strengthening relationships between the Executive and Afghan Parliament and a stronger approach to looking after their own affairs.
Asked if briefing was available in relation to the soldier killed and when any investigation was likely to be concluded, the PMOS said that an investigation was underway but this was a matter for the MoD.
Asked for more detail about the PM’s talks with Petraeus and the speed of withdrawal of troops, the PMOs informed journalists that the PM would make a statement in the House on Wednesday.
Phone Hacking
Asked if the PM had been kept informed about the phone hacking situation, the PMOS replied that he was and repeated what the PM had said that morning, “If the allegations are true, this is a truly dreadful act and a truly dreadful situation”. He went on to say “it’s quite shocking”.
In answer to further questions that Rebekah Brooks should resign, the PMOS said Police investigations are ongoing and we should await the outcome of those police investigations.
North Sea Tax Allowances
Asked for more detail on the North Sea tax allowances the PMOS explained that this was an announcement by the Treasury Minister, Justine Greening about changes to North Sea tax allowances to support investment. This is following a Budget commitment we made that we would look into this.