Press briefing: afternoon 10 June 2013
The Prime Minister's Spokesperson (PMS) answered questions on Syria, Thames Water, GCHQ, the economy and Europe.
Syria
Asked whether the UK government was holding meetings about providing arms to the rebels in Syria, the PMS said that the Prime Minister’s position remained unchanged and that no decision had been made about providing lethal assistance.
Thames Water
Asked whether the Prime Minister had a view on Thames Water not paying tax, the PMS said he would not comment on specific cases but the Prime Minister was clear that all companies must pay the taxes that are due.
Government Communications Headquarters (GCHQ)
Asked whether the Prime Minister was content that no Ministerial emails had been compromised, the PMS said that the Prime Minister was confident that the Security Services worked within a very strong legal framework, with strong ministerial oversight and parliamentary oversight from the Intelligence and Security Committee.
Economy
Asked whether the Prime Minister thought the spending boom predicted by the Item Club was good for the economy, the PMS said that the Prime Minister believed the economy was healing.
Europe
Asked how the Prime Minister can argue for independence when he has made it clear he wants to stay in Europe, the PMS said that the Prime Minister had made his position clear on Europe during his speech in January.