Number 10 Press Briefing - Afternoon 22 November 2012
The Prime Minister's Spokesperson (PMS) answered questions on the new BBC CEO, EU Budget, upcoming heads of state visits and prisoner voting.
BBC CEO
Answering questions on the appointment of the new BBC Chief Executive the PMS pointed to the statement made by Maria Miller welcoming the new Director General. Asked about the process for the appointment the PMS said it was a matter for the BBC Trust.
EU Budget
Asked about EU budget talks, the PMS said that the Prime Minister’s bilateral with the President of the European Council Herman Von Rompuy had taken place this morning and that the next thing on the agenda would be the dinner in the evening.
Heads of states visits
Asked whether there would be any words put out ahead of the visits of the Algerian and Tunisian presidents the PMS said that we had not decided the plan at this stage.
Prisoner voting
Answering questions on prisoner voting the PMS said that the Justice Secretary had set out what the process will be for the draft bill with various options and a joint committee from both Houses which would deliberate on the issues. People in Britain felt strongly about this issue and the Prime Minister has expressed his personal view. We had a legal obligation to bring forward legislation and we started that process.