Press briefing: morning 11 March 2014
The Prime Minister’s Spokesperson (PMS) answered questions on public sector pay, EU/US Trade, Bob Crow and Ukraine.
Public sector pay
Asked about public sector pay discussions at Cabinet, the PMS said the Chief Secretary had given an update on the submissions from various pay review bodies. The government would respond in the coming days. There had been no change to the government’s approach to the public sector pay bill.
EU/US trade
Asked about the EU/US trade deal discussions at Cabinet, the PMS said a third round of negotiations would start soon. Progress was being made.
Bob Crow
Asked for the PM’s reaction to the news of Bob Crow’s death, the PMS said the PM expressed his deepest condolences to Mr Crow’s family and friends.
Ukraine
Asked about sanctions against Russia, the PMS said the government wanted to see de-escalation and dialogue between Russia and Ukraine. There was a meeting between international partners later that afternoon regarding sanctions. As had been set out by US officials, it could be expected that the focus of sanctions would be on Russian officials who had direct links to the violation of Ukrainian sovereignty.
Asked about Russian and UK government military cooperation, the PMS said the PM had announced a review of all links with the Russian government. Any military cooperation would not be expected to go ahead unless required by international treaty.