Press briefing: morning 23 January
The Prime Minister’s Spokesperson (PMS) answered questions on Davos, Iran, Syria, the UK economy and immigration.
Davos
Asked about who the PM’s itinerary in Davos, the PMS said the PM would be holding meetings with potential inward investors and business leaders. The Chancellor and Deputy Prime Minister were expected to attend.
Iran
Asked about President Rouhani’s speech this morning and UK engagement with Iran, the PMS said the Foreign Secretary had recently updated Parliament about the gradual process of engagement with Iran, such as the recent naming of a British Chargé d’affaires.
Economy
Asked about figures supporting claims that Britons are better off despite wage rises being outstripped by inflation, the PMS pointed the journalist to ONS surveys on hours and earnings alongside tax reductions the government had made.
Immigration
Asked whether there had been consultation with backbench MPs on Immigration Bill amendments next week, the PMS said that the government would look at amendments very closely.
Syrian refugees
Asked whether Britain would participate in the UN scheme on Syrian refugees, the PMS said the government was looking at how it could further respond to the most extreme cases of hardship.
Portsmouth
Asked whether Michael Fallon would work with Mike Hancock MP regarding issues in Portsmouth, the PMS said that Michael Fallon was working closely across government and with local representatives about how the government can support Portsmouth’s transition from shipbuilding to ship maintenance.
Recall
Asked about the PM’s pledge about the power to recall MPs, the PMS said the consideration of that policy area was on going.
Scotland
Asked whether it was possible to have an open border between Scotland and England if Scotland was independent, the PMS said the government wanted to see the UK stay together. An independent Scotland with different immigration policies, could result in border controls.