Number 10 Press Briefing - Morning For 14 June 2011
From the Prime Minister's spokesperson on: Health, Waste Review and Libya.
Health
Asked for information on the future process for the Health Bill, the Prime Minister’s Spokesperson (PMS) said that there would be further details in the Written Ministerial Statement.
Waste Review
Asked how the policy sat alongside last year’s Conservative Manifesto, the PMS said the Government understood there was a reasonable expectation for rubbish to be collected regularly. The Government had done much to help local councils, and removed the Audit Commission guidance that encouraged Councils to have fortnightly collections.
The PMS said local councils were accountable to their electorates. Any financial decisions had to be taken within the context of the UK having the highest deficit in the G20.
Libya
Asked about the PM’s thoughts on Admiral Sir Mark Stanhope’s comments on naval capabilities, the PMS said the Chief of the Defence Staff had made clear that the UK could continue its operations in Libya as long as was necessary. Military priorities were decided on the basis of military advice. It was also a well-known fact the Government needed to fill a black hole in the defence budget.
Asked on the costs for Libya, the PMS said the costs would be revealed through the normal parliamentary process.
Asked whether the PM was aware of pilot fatigue, the PMS said that there were arrangements in place so that the PM and Cabinet are closely in touch on all the issues surrounding Libya. He did not believe this issue had been raised.