Press briefing: morning 21 July 2014
The Prime Minister's Spokesperson (PMS) answered questions on the MH17 plane crash, Student Loans Company, pensions and Gaza.
MH17 plane crash
Asked about the Prime Minister’s (PM) recent engagement with other world leaders on the MH17 crash, the Prime Minister’s Spokesperson (PMS) said that there were a series of calls over the weekend with leaders and he expected more activity in coming days.
When asked about the UN Security Council vote, the PMS stressed the importance of immediate access to the crash site and the need for a thorough investigation.
Asked about other EU members’ reliance on trade with Russia, the PMS stated that there may well be costs associated with sanctions, but that we must also consider the cost of not taking action.
When asked about the PM’s next steps in relation to the crash, the PMS said that the PM has always been clear that what counts is action on the ground. He stressed that we still did not have the access that is required and we needed to ensure there was a proper investigation and that the relatives of those who died received answers.
Student Loans Company
When asked what the government’s view was on the selling of the Student Loan Book, the PMS said that the government position remained the same. The government would continue to be guided by what was best for the taxpayer.
Pensions
Asked about the changes to pension advice, the PMS said that it was important that individuals had access to independent, impartial advice in a way that best suited them.
Gaza
When asked about the ongoing conflict in Gaza, the PMS said that the government wanted to see a ceasefire and for a ceasefire to happen, Hamas needed to stop firing rockets.