Press briefing: afternoon 23 October 2013
The Prime Minister’s Spokesperson (PMS) answered questions on energy, Grangemouth, Facebook and the royal christening.
Energy bills
Asked about the Prime Minister’s (PM) words on rolling back green taxes in energy bills, the PMS said the government was looking at how it would be done to an Autumn Statement timetable. There were a number of components that made up energy bills, and the government would also look at competition and profits in the market.
The Chancellor had previously said the green taxes were a burden on families and the government would do everything it could to reduce their cost in the autumn.
Asked whether the PM still wanted to run the greenest government ever, the PMS said that he did.
Grangemouth
Asked about the situation at the Grangemouth refinery, the PMS said the government had made it clear it wanted to see what it could do to support the discussions. It was disappointing that both sides had been unable to reach an agreement. The government would continue to work with the Scottish government.
Asked whether the PM had any comment on Facebook’s decision to change its policy on violent videos, the PMS said that it was welcome and there was a continuing responsibility on firms to look at their rules and procedures.
Royal christening
Asked about the royal christening, the PMS said the cabinet had jointly contributed to a gift toy box and had also made a charitable donation to the Royal Foundation of The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and Prince Harry.