Press briefing: morning 26 March 2013
The Prime Minister's Spokesperson (PMS) answered questions on Cabinet, Cyprus and Northern Ireland.
Cabinet
Asked what areas of growth the Home Secretary spoke about in Cabinet the PMS said every department has a role to play in the growth agenda and the Home Secretary was updating Cabinet on what areas her department is working on. The examples given were through public service reform and continuing reform of immigration and visa services.
Asked what the Chancellor said on Cyprus the PMS said he gave a factual update on developments over recent days.
Asked what the Environment Secretary said on flooding insurance the PMS said constructive discussions with the insurance industry remain ongoing with a view to reaching an agreement.
Cyprus
Asked about the letter the DWP have sent to British nationals living in Cyprus the PMS said the letter to those who receive a state pension is to offer the opportunity of payment going to an alternative bank account.
Asked what the DWP were offering in the letter the PMS said it is expected that all Government departments that provide a public service work with their customers to ensure that service is as good as it can be.
Northern Ireland meeting
Asked if this was a standard meeting with the devolved administrations or if it had been arranged as a result of recent troubles in Northern Ireland the PMS said today’s meeting is an opportunity to discuss a range of political and economic issues.
Asked if the meeting had been arranged to talk about the devolution of corporation tax the PMS said the meeting will cover a range of issues with corporation tax being one of them.