Number 10 Press Briefing - Morning From 11 October 2011
From the Prime Minister's spokesperson on Gus O'Donnell retirement, Defence Secretary Liam Fox, child sexualisation, Mary Portas and Greece.
Gus O’Donnell retirement
Asked a number of questions about the new structure of the Civil Service, the Cabinet Office and No.10, the Prime Minister’s Spokesman (PMS) outlined details of the new arrangements. Asked why these changes had taken place, the PMS said they had come about because Sir Gus O’Donnell was retiring.
Asked several questions about who would be responsible for the range of responsibilities connected with Sir Gus’ current role, the PMS gave details of the new arrangements.
Defence Secretary Liam Fox
Asked several questions about the details and the progress of the investigation into allegations that the Defence Secretary Liam Fox had broken the Ministerial Code, the PMS replied that he would not provide a running commentary on the process.
Asked about Sir Gus O’Donnell’s role in the investigation, the PMS said it was his role to address the remaining questions. Asked about the role of the Independent Advisor and asked to speculate on the current status of the investigation, the PMS replied that it was normal practice for the Cabinet Secretary to advise on these issues and that he was addressing all the remaining questions.
Sexualisation of children
Asked if the Government would be releasing details about plans to tackle the sexualisation of children, the PMS said details would be released later in the day.
Mary Portas
Asked why Mary Portas had visited Number 10, the PMS said he didn’t have details of the meeting but she was conducting a review of the High Street for the Government.
Greece
Asked if it was in Britain’s interest to help out Greece, the PMS replied that it was in Britain’s interests to see stability in the Eurozone and that was why the PM was arguing for decisive action from Eurozone countries to deal with their problems.