Press briefing: morning 22 January
The Prime Minister’s Spokesperson (PMS) answered questions on stop and search powers, energy sector, and short selling.
Stop and search
Asked about consulting on stop and search powers, the PMS said it was right that the government had been consulting as it was important the powers were used appropriately. HMIC’s 2013 report showed that in a quarter of cases the correct procedures were not followed, and it was right they were reviewed. If the government needed to take action as a result of consultation, it would. If it didn’t, it wouldn’t.
Energy
Asked about the government’s investment in the energy sector, the PMS said there had been £30 billion invested in the renewable energy sector since 2010 and only a few weeks ago the government announced an agreed investment at Hinkley Point. The government also wanted more competition on the market to see downward pressure on household bills. There were also schemes to improve the efficiency of homes.
Asked about the government’s approach to the European Commission’s 2030 targets on renewable energy, the PMS said the government thought it was right to invest in renewables, and had invested £30 billion since 2010, but the use of a uniform target across all member states was a distinct issue.
Short selling
Asked about the ECJ’s ruling against the UK on short selling, the PMS said the government would consider the judgement and respond at a future date.