Press briefing: morning 31 March 2014
The Prime Minister’s Spokesperson (PMS) answered questions on child cruelty, Scotland, energy companies and the Football World Cup in Qatar.
Child cruelty
Asked about updating child cruelty legislation, the PMS said it was right to look at any concerns raised by expert groups. The government had consulted expert groups about updating legislation and it was being actively considered.
Scotland
Asked whether there would be a currency union with an independent Scotland, the PMS said the Chancellor and Chief Secretary had previously set out the government’s view. There would be no currency union in the event of independence.
Energy companies
Asked about the service that energy companies provide to customers, the PMS said that action was needed on energy bills. The government had legislated to ensure people were put on the lowest tariffs. Ofgem was carrying out work to simplify people’s bills. An annual competition test had been established, which had lead to the referral of the industry to the Competition and Markets Authority. Competition was at the heart of overall customer service and the government wanted more competition in the industry.
Asked about concerns over people paying a premium for using pre-pay energy meters, the PMS said the PM understood why there was some concern over the issue, and that the government was working with Ofgem to see what more could be done for families using pre-pay meters.
Qatar World Cup
Asked whether the PM was concerned about World Cup construction site standards in Qatar, the PMS said FIFA were responsible for working with the Qatari authorities on these matters and it was right for them to consider raising concerns.