Press briefing: morning 18 December 2013
The Prime Minister’s Spokesperson (PMS) answered questions on Syria, EU immigration, Dr Khan, Lockerbie and prisoner voting.
Syria
Asked to comment on the reports of UK jihadists in Syria, the PMS said the reports highlighted the importance of finding a political transition in Syria and the importance of police and security service work to disrupt threats to the UK.
European Union (EU) immigration
Asked about EU immigration, the PMS said immigration from the EU had been allowed to get out of control over the past decade. The government was taking action, which included changes in access to the benefits system. The Prime Minister (PM) had already set out his views on EU accession and that freedom of movement was not a freedom to claim. He would continue to set out his view whenever the opportunity arose. Asked about the government’s measure to stop EU migrants claiming out of work benefits in the first 3 months of UK residency, the PMS said that fairness to the UK taxpayer was central to the policy.
Dr Khan
Asked for the PM’s reaction to the death of Dr Khan in Syria, the PMS said the PM extended his sincere condolences to Dr Khan’s family. The responsibility for his death was squarely with the Syrian regime and it was sadly further evidence of the brutality of the regime.
Lockerbie
Asked about the Libyan prosecutor’s decision to assist the Lockerbie bombing investigation, the PMS said the PM had raised the issue with the Libyan government and welcomed all progress that could be made with the investigation.
Prisoner Voting
Asked for the PM’s stance on prisoner voting, the PMS said his view had not changed.