Press briefing: morning 7 April 2014
The Prime Minister’s Spokesperson (PMS) answered questions on Maria Miller, Northern Ireland, Asda, Syria and Christianity.
Maria Miller
In response to questions about Maria Miller’s expenses and her position as Culture Secretary, the PMS confirmed the Prime Minister had full confidence in her. Asked about the expenses system and whether it should be reformed, he pointed out that the expenses system had been reformed in 2010. Asked about the Standards Committee, the PMS said that if there were changes that Parliament wished to consider, and they thought that was the right thing to do, the Prime Minister would be open to further changes.
Northern Ireland
Asked about Peter Hain’s call for an end to Northern Ireland conflict-related prosecutions, the PMS said the Prime Minister had been clear on this, he did not support the idea of an amnesty.
Asda
Asked whether Asda shoppers were as friendly as Waitrose’s, the PMS highlighted that the Prime Minister visited Asda to welcome 12,000 jobs for the UK.
Syria
Asked for a view on Tony Blair’s comments that he regrets the UK not intervening in Syria last year, the PMS said the Prime Minister’s view on Syria had not changed.
Christianity
Asked about Eric Pickles’ recent comments on atheism, the PMS said the Prime Minister had expressed his views on faith in the UK many times.