Number 10 lobby briefing on customs union, Trump visit, FOBTs and Windrush
2 min read
Here is a summary of this morning's briefing for lobby journalists by the Prime Minister's official spokesman.
CUSTOMS UNION
On the issue of whether the Prime Minister is willing to accept a customs union with the EU after Brexit, the spokesman said: "We have put forward two options, they were set out in the Mansion House speech and elsewhere, and those are the two options which we are moving forward with. We are absolutely clear that we are leaving the customs union and that we will be free to strike our own trade deals around the world.
"We think both of the options we have put forward can provide solutions to the Irish border and to having a smooth customs arrangement with the EU."
He added: "What's important is that all sides work constructively and work together to find a solution and we think that both options we have put forward are viable in achieving our aims."
DONALD TRUMP
On reports that Donald Trump will visit the UK in July, the spokesman said: "When the Prime Minister met with the president at Davos earlier this year we set out there would be a working visit later this year. The work to arrange that visit in ongoing and once it is confirmed we will let you know."
FOBTs
On reports that Philip Hammond blocked putting a maximum stake on FOBT gambling machines over fears of lost revenue for the Treasury, the spokesman said: "I did not recognise the report this morning. We have been clear that FOBT stakes will be cut and the Chancellor is fully on board with that."
WINDRUSH
On the details of compensation payments for victims of the Windrush scandal, the spokesman said Home Secretary Amber Rudd would be making a statement to Parliament this afternoon. He added: "The Prime Minister said when she met with Caribbean leaders last week that compensation is something that we're looking at."
