Press briefing: morning 11 February
The Prime Minister’s Spokesperson (PMS) answered questions on flooding and smoking.
Flooding
Asked about the PM’s visits to the South West, the PMS said it was an opportunity for the PM to see the situation for himself and get the fullest possible picture from the responders supporting the communities on the ground.
Asked about military involvement, the PMS said army and navy personnel had been deployed as part of the response. There were 1,600 personnel immediately available to assist. The PM had been clear that resources were available and the government was ensuring that everything that could be done was being done.
Asked about funding for flood defences and maintenance, the PMS said the spending in the current 4 year period was higher than the 4 year period prior to 2010. The government had an investment plan in place through to 2020. There was also an additional £130 million of funding in response to the recent flooding, £75 million of which was for flood defence maintenance.
Smoking
Asked about the PM’s views on smoking at home with children present, the PMS said it was a matter for individuals. There was a particular public health concern around smoking in cars with children present. The intention was for secondary legislation regarding smoking in cars to be in place by May 2015.