Press briefing: morning 24 October 2013
The Prime Minister’s Spokesperson (PMS) answered questions on Grangemouth, US eavesdropping, green levies and the Coalition.
Grangemouth
Asked what message the Prime Minister (PM) had for Ineos and the union, the PMS said that it was pleasing they are now round the table. Both sides should continue with these talks and come to a solution. Grangemouth is of vital importance to the economy and the government is working closely with the Scottish government.
US eavesdropping
Asked if the US had provided assurances that there had been no eavesdropping on the PM’s phone calls, the PMS said that he would not comment on matters of security or intelligence.
Green levies
Asked on rolling back of green levies and if the PM and Deputy PM had been discussing this, the PMS said the policy was clear that green levies would be rolled back and there was work to do between now and Autumn Statement.
Asked if rolling back would mean a reduction on energy bills , the PMS pointed to the PM’s comment at Prime Minister’s Questions (PMQs) on Wednesday. Work was ongoing to help hard-pressed families.
Asked about paying above market prices for the recent EDF Energy announcement and whether this would form part of the review, the PMS said there would be progress on this by the Autumn Statement. The PMS said the PM was clear he wanted to see a broad energy mix. Hinkley Point showed that there is opportunity for investment and that the government wanted to be the greenest government ever.
Coalition
Asked if there was still a functioning coalition, the PMS confirmed this was the case and that the PM and DPM’s relationship continues to be highly effective.
Police
Asked if the PM was disappointed that the Police Federation officers had not yet apologised, the PMS referred back to the PM’s words at PMQs. It was a matter for Chief Constables if the officers were to be disciplined.