Press briefing: morning 1 May 2014
The Prime Minister’s Spokesperson (PMS) answered questions on the PM of Japan, Gerry Adams, private tenancies, AstraZeneca and Ann Maguire.
PM of Japan visit
Asked about the PM’s meeting with PM Abe of Japan, the PMS said bilateral trade, investment, energy and global international issues were on the agenda.
Asked about the Japanese military, the PMS said Japan was committed to playing a larger role in international security. The Japanese military was already engaged in peacekeeping and conflict prevention as well as humanitarian work around the world.
Gerry Adams
Asked about the arrest of Gerry Adams, the PMS said it was entirely a matter for the police service of Northern Ireland.
Private tenancies
Asked about the government’s work on private landlords and tenancies, the PMS said the government had introduced measures requiring letting agents and managers to subscribe to a redress scheme to protect all parties as well as worked with local authorities to combat rogue landlords.
AstraZeneca
Asked about the potential takeover of AstraZeneca, the PMS said it was a commercial discussion between Pfizer and AstraZeneca. The government had an interest in any large commercial decisions because of jobs and investment in the UK. The UK had the advantage of an open trade-based economy with the scope for inward investment and UK companies investing abroad. The government would continue to support the development of science and science-skilled jobs in the UK.
Ann Maguire
Asked about a potential memorial for murdered teacher Ann Maguire and school safety, the PMS said it would be absolutely fitting that the local community in Leeds would want to pay their respects and tributes. There was a police investigation under way; if there were lessons to take forward from the investigation they would be looked at.