Press briefing: afternoon 20 November 2013
The Prime Minister’s Spokesperson (PMS) answered questions on the Co-op, A&E funding, childcare and women bishops.
Co-op
Asked about potential inquiries into handling of the Co-op, the PMS said that the Chancellor would discuss what form of inquiry would be appropriate with regulators. The police investigation was a matter for the police. The Prudential Regulation Authority and Financial Conduct Authority could launch an inquiry and the Financial Services Act 2012 gave the Chancellor the power to launch an independent inquiry.
Accident & Emergency (A&E) funding
Asked whether the government was allocating an additional £150 million for A&E services, the PMS said the government had already allocated an extra £500 million and he had nothing to add at this stage.
Childcare
Asked for the Prime Minister’s stance on balancing employers and employees views on childcare, the PMS said the government had consulted and would set out the way forward in due course.
Women bishops
Asked about women bishops, the PMS said it was a decision for the Church of England. If the Church of England voted to accept women bishops, the Prime Minister was happy to work with the Church on issues raised with regard to representation in the Lords.