Press briefing: afternoon 18 December 2014
The Prime Minister's Official Spokesperson answered questions about the balance of competencies, obesity, immigration, Royal Mail and special advisors.
Balance of competencies
When asked about the review of the balance of competencies, the Prime Minister’s Official Spokesperson (PMOS) said it was designed to give an analytical evidence base that could be used in the forthcoming renegotiations and the Prime Minister thinks it is right that the exercise was carried out.
Obesity
When asked about the European Court of Justice ruling on obesity, the PMOS referred back to the details of the judgment.
Immigration
When asked about working towards change on EU immigration, the PMOS said there were a number of aspects that pointed to the importance of needing to renegotiate change to the rules on immigration.
Royal Mail
When asked about Lord Myners’ review of the sale of the Royal Mail, the PMOS said the report made a number of recommendations with regard to future asset sales. The report has been welcomed and the recommendations will be considered closely. He referred to Lord Myners’ words, that he “judged it to be a well executed, complex exercise. The right decisions were made.”
Special Advisors
When asked about Special Advisors, the PMOS said the numbers reflected the fact there is a coalition government and the average salary is now at least £5,000 less than under the previous government.