English subtitles for clip: File:President Obama and Prime Minister Cameron at the White House.webm
Jump to navigation
Jump to search
1 00:00:01,200 --> 00:00:02,030 President Obama: Good afternoon, everybody. 2 00:00:02,033 --> 00:00:04,033 Please have a seat. 3 00:00:04,033 --> 00:00:07,933 It is my great pleasure to welcome Prime Minister Cameron 4 00:00:07,934 --> 00:00:13,164 on his first visit to the White House as Prime Minister. 5 00:00:13,166 --> 00:00:16,466 We have just concluded some excellent discussions -- 6 00:00:16,467 --> 00:00:20,997 including whether the beers from our hometowns that we exchanged 7 00:00:21,000 --> 00:00:24,170 are best served warm or cold. 8 00:00:24,166 --> 00:00:30,596 My understanding is, is that the Prime Minister enjoyed our 312 9 00:00:30,600 --> 00:00:34,430 beer and we may send him some more. 10 00:00:34,433 --> 00:00:36,703 I thought the beer we got was excellent -- but I did 11 00:00:36,700 --> 00:00:37,670 drink it cold. 12 00:00:37,667 --> 00:00:39,697 (laughter) 13 00:00:39,700 --> 00:00:43,070 Mr. Prime Minister, we can never say it enough. 14 00:00:43,066 --> 00:00:46,066 The United States and the United Kingdom enjoy 15 00:00:46,066 --> 00:00:48,296 a truly special relationship. 16 00:00:48,300 --> 00:00:50,300 We celebrate a common heritage. 17 00:00:50,300 --> 00:00:52,700 We cherish common values. 18 00:00:52,700 --> 00:00:58,030 And we speak a common language -- most of the time. 19 00:00:58,033 --> 00:01:01,563 We honor the sacrifices of our brave men and women in 20 00:01:01,567 --> 00:01:04,737 uniform who have served together, bled together, 21 00:01:04,734 --> 00:01:08,404 and even lay at rest together. 22 00:01:08,400 --> 00:01:12,330 Above all, our alliance thrives because it advances 23 00:01:12,333 --> 00:01:14,163 our common interests. 24 00:01:14,166 --> 00:01:16,496 Whether it's preventing the spread of nuclear weapons or 25 00:01:16,500 --> 00:01:19,600 securing vulnerable nuclear materials, 26 00:01:19,600 --> 00:01:23,200 thwarting terrorist attacks, or confronting climate change, 27 00:01:23,200 --> 00:01:26,770 or promoting global economic growth and development, 28 00:01:26,767 --> 00:01:29,567 when the United States and the United Kingdom stand together, 29 00:01:29,567 --> 00:01:32,937 our people -- and people around the world -- are more secure and 30 00:01:32,934 --> 00:01:35,064 they are more prosperous. 31 00:01:35,066 --> 00:01:38,736 In short, the United States has no closer ally and no stronger 32 00:01:38,734 --> 00:01:41,104 partner than Great Britain. 33 00:01:41,100 --> 00:01:44,830 And I appreciate the opportunity to renew our relationship with 34 00:01:44,834 --> 00:01:48,534 my partner, Prime Minister Cameron. 35 00:01:48,533 --> 00:01:52,463 In his campaign, David was known for his extensive town halls 36 00:01:52,467 --> 00:01:55,597 discussions with voters -- "Cameron Direct." 37 00:01:55,600 --> 00:01:59,030 And that's the same spirit that we had here today. 38 00:01:59,033 --> 00:02:01,263 I appreciate David's steady leadership and 39 00:02:01,266 --> 00:02:02,766 his pragmatic approach. 40 00:02:02,767 --> 00:02:06,097 And just as he's off to an energetic start at home, 41 00:02:06,100 --> 00:02:09,330 I think we've had a brilliant start as partners who see 42 00:02:09,333 --> 00:02:12,863 eye-to-eye on virtually every challenge before us. 43 00:02:12,867 --> 00:02:15,197 Great Britain is one of our largest trading partners, 44 00:02:15,200 --> 00:02:18,530 and we're committed to long-term sustainable growth that keeps 45 00:02:18,533 --> 00:02:21,863 the global economy growing and puts our people to work. 46 00:02:21,867 --> 00:02:24,097 I told David that my administration is working hard 47 00:02:24,100 --> 00:02:27,130 with the Senate to move forward as soon as possible with our 48 00:02:27,133 --> 00:02:30,803 defense trade treaty with the U.K., which will be good for our 49 00:02:30,800 --> 00:02:34,070 workers and our troops in both our countries. 50 00:02:34,066 --> 00:02:35,796 We reaffirmed our commitment to fiscal 51 00:02:35,800 --> 00:02:37,870 responsibility and reform. 52 00:02:37,867 --> 00:02:40,497 David's government is making some courageous decisions, 53 00:02:40,500 --> 00:02:45,500 and I've set a goal of cutting our deficit in half by 2013. 54 00:02:45,500 --> 00:02:49,100 Tomorrow, I'll sign into law the toughest financial reforms since 55 00:02:49,100 --> 00:02:51,030 the aftermath of the Great Depression. 56 00:02:51,033 --> 00:02:53,633 And I commend David for his leadership in Europe to rebuild 57 00:02:53,633 --> 00:02:56,463 confidence in the financial sector. 58 00:02:56,467 --> 00:02:58,367 Together, we're determined to make sure the financial 59 00:02:58,367 --> 00:03:02,497 catastrophe that we are emerging from never happens again. 60 00:03:02,500 --> 00:03:05,630 We discussed the Middle East, where both our governments are 61 00:03:05,633 --> 00:03:08,233 working to encourage Israelis and Palestinians to move to 62 00:03:08,233 --> 00:03:11,063 direct talks as soon as possible. 63 00:03:11,066 --> 00:03:13,836 We discussed the continuing threat posed by Iran's 64 00:03:13,834 --> 00:03:15,134 nuclear program. 65 00:03:15,133 --> 00:03:19,003 On this we are united: The Iranian government must fulfill 66 00:03:19,000 --> 00:03:21,700 its international obligations. 67 00:03:21,700 --> 00:03:24,600 The new sanctions imposed by the U.N. Security Council, 68 00:03:24,600 --> 00:03:27,300 the United States, and other countries are putting 69 00:03:27,300 --> 00:03:30,030 unprecedented pressure on the Iranian government. 70 00:03:30,033 --> 00:03:33,033 And I thanked David for Great Britain's efforts to ensure 71 00:03:33,033 --> 00:03:36,763 strong European Union sanctions in the coming days. 72 00:03:36,767 --> 00:03:39,067 Along with our P5-plus-1 partners, 73 00:03:39,066 --> 00:03:41,266 we remain committed to a diplomatic solution. 74 00:03:41,266 --> 00:03:45,396 But the Iranian government must understand that the path of 75 00:03:45,400 --> 00:03:49,770 defiance will only bring more pressure and more isolation. 76 00:03:49,767 --> 00:03:54,367 Finally, much of our discussion focused on Afghanistan. 77 00:03:54,367 --> 00:03:57,167 After the United States, Great Britain is the largest 78 00:03:57,166 --> 00:03:59,766 contributor of combat forces in Afghanistan, 79 00:03:59,767 --> 00:04:03,267 and British troops and civilians have served and sacrificed in 80 00:04:03,266 --> 00:04:06,566 some of the most dangerous parts of the country. 81 00:04:06,567 --> 00:04:08,667 This is not an easy fight. 82 00:04:08,667 --> 00:04:11,067 But it is a necessary one. 83 00:04:11,066 --> 00:04:15,996 Terrorists trained in Afghanistan and the tribal 84 00:04:16,000 --> 00:04:19,270 regions along the Pakistani border have killed innocent 85 00:04:19,266 --> 00:04:22,196 civilians in both of our countries. 86 00:04:22,200 --> 00:04:25,800 And an even wider insurgency in Afghanistan would mean an even 87 00:04:25,800 --> 00:04:29,270 larger safe haven for al Qaeda and its terrorist affiliates to 88 00:04:29,266 --> 00:04:30,636 plan their next attack. 89 00:04:30,633 --> 00:04:32,903 And we are not going to let that happen. 90 00:04:32,900 --> 00:04:34,630 We have the right strategy. 91 00:04:34,633 --> 00:04:37,163 We're going to break the Taliban's momentum. 92 00:04:37,166 --> 00:04:40,336 We're going to build Afghan capacity so Afghans can take 93 00:04:40,333 --> 00:04:42,333 responsibility for their future. 94 00:04:42,333 --> 00:04:45,133 And we're going to deepen regional cooperation, 95 00:04:45,133 --> 00:04:47,603 including with Pakistan. 96 00:04:47,600 --> 00:04:50,300 Today's historic Kabul Conference is another 97 00:04:50,300 --> 00:04:51,970 major step forward. 98 00:04:51,967 --> 00:04:54,497 The Afghan government presented -- and its international 99 00:04:54,500 --> 00:04:57,900 partners unanimously endorsed -- concrete plans to implement 100 00:04:57,900 --> 00:05:01,430 President Karzai's commitments to improve security, 101 00:05:01,433 --> 00:05:06,203 economic growth, governance, and the delivery of basic services. 102 00:05:06,200 --> 00:05:08,800 The Afghan government presented its peace and reconciliation 103 00:05:08,800 --> 00:05:12,600 plan -- which the United States firmly supports. 104 00:05:12,600 --> 00:05:15,300 Agreement was reached on a plan in which responsibility 105 00:05:15,300 --> 00:05:19,500 for security in Afghan provinces will transition 106 00:05:19,500 --> 00:05:21,530 to Afghan security forces. 107 00:05:21,533 --> 00:05:25,033 In addition, Afghanistan and Pakistan reached a historic 108 00:05:25,033 --> 00:05:28,363 agreement to increase economic opportunity for people on both 109 00:05:28,367 --> 00:05:30,567 sides of the border. 110 00:05:30,567 --> 00:05:33,067 So these are all important achievements, 111 00:05:33,066 --> 00:05:37,096 and they go a long way toward helping create the conditions 112 00:05:37,100 --> 00:05:39,770 needed for Afghans to assume greater responsibility 113 00:05:39,767 --> 00:05:41,337 for their country. 114 00:05:41,333 --> 00:05:45,263 Indeed, over the coming year, Afghans will begin to take the 115 00:05:45,266 --> 00:05:50,066 lead in security, and in July of next year will begin to transfer 116 00:05:50,066 --> 00:05:53,166 -- we will begin the transfer some of our 117 00:05:53,166 --> 00:05:55,636 forces out of Afghanistan. 118 00:05:55,633 --> 00:05:59,933 And the Kabul Conference shows that the Afghan -- that 119 00:05:59,934 --> 00:06:03,204 Afghanistan has the support of the international community, 120 00:06:03,200 --> 00:06:05,730 including the United States, which will remain a long-term 121 00:06:05,734 --> 00:06:10,204 partner for the security and progress of the Afghan people. 122 00:06:10,200 --> 00:06:14,870 As we go forward, we want to honor our fallen warriors with 123 00:06:14,867 --> 00:06:18,137 the respect and gratitude that they deserve -- whether it's 124 00:06:18,133 --> 00:06:25,103 here at Dover, or in the small British town of Wootton Bassett, 125 00:06:25,100 --> 00:06:28,400 where people line the streets in a solemn tribute that represents 126 00:06:28,400 --> 00:06:31,230 the best of the British character. 127 00:06:31,233 --> 00:06:35,063 With pride in their service and determination to carry on their 128 00:06:35,066 --> 00:06:38,536 work for a safer world, I am confident that we can be worthy 129 00:06:38,533 --> 00:06:39,733 of their sacrifice. 130 00:06:39,734 --> 00:06:42,234 And I am confident that with my partner and friend, 131 00:06:42,233 --> 00:06:44,833 David Cameron, the special relationship between our 132 00:06:44,834 --> 00:06:49,004 countries will only grow stronger in the years to come. 133 00:06:49,000 --> 00:06:50,700 Mr. Prime Minister. 134 00:06:50,700 --> 00:06:52,670 Prime Minister Cameron: Well, first of all, can I thank you, Mr. President, 135 00:06:52,667 --> 00:06:56,597 for welcoming me so warmly to the White House today. 136 00:06:56,600 --> 00:06:59,000 Thank you for the meeting, for the lunch that we had, 137 00:06:59,000 --> 00:07:02,770 and also for the tour of part of your home. 138 00:07:02,767 --> 00:07:05,997 I have to say, I was most impressed by how tidy your 139 00:07:06,000 --> 00:07:06,800 children's bedrooms were. 140 00:07:06,800 --> 00:07:07,470 (laughter) 141 00:07:07,467 --> 00:07:10,367 And I think if the President of the United States can get his 142 00:07:10,367 --> 00:07:13,067 children to tidy their bedrooms, then the British Prime Minister, 143 00:07:13,066 --> 00:07:13,566 it's about time -- 144 00:07:13,567 --> 00:07:14,197 President Obama: You can do it. 145 00:07:14,200 --> 00:07:15,630 Prime Minister Cameron: -- he did exactly the same thing. 146 00:07:15,633 --> 00:07:16,463 (laughter) 147 00:07:16,467 --> 00:07:17,537 President Obama: You have to give them some notice, 148 00:07:17,533 --> 00:07:18,333 that's the only thing. 149 00:07:18,333 --> 00:07:19,163 (laughter) 150 00:07:19,166 --> 00:07:20,196 Prime Minister Cameron: Right. Well, they've got notice -- 151 00:07:20,200 --> 00:07:21,100 President Obama: Tell them the Prime Minister is coming. 152 00:07:21,100 --> 00:07:21,670 (laughter) 153 00:07:21,667 --> 00:07:22,497 Prime Minister Cameron: They should be in bed by now, 154 00:07:22,500 --> 00:07:23,930 but if they're not they have notice. 155 00:07:23,934 --> 00:07:25,004 (laughter) 156 00:07:25,000 --> 00:07:28,000 I think we did have a very valuable opportunity today 157 00:07:28,000 --> 00:07:31,930 to discuss in real depth a strong and a shared agenda 158 00:07:31,934 --> 00:07:35,064 on Afghanistan, on global economic recovery, 159 00:07:35,066 --> 00:07:36,436 and on the Middle East. 160 00:07:36,433 --> 00:07:39,533 And this relationship isn't just, as you put it, 161 00:07:39,533 --> 00:07:42,163 an extraordinary special relationship. 162 00:07:42,166 --> 00:07:46,536 To me, it is also an absolutely essential relationship if we are 163 00:07:46,533 --> 00:07:49,203 going to deliver the security and the prosperity 164 00:07:49,200 --> 00:07:51,000 that our people need. 165 00:07:51,000 --> 00:07:55,970 And I thought again today in our discussions just how closely 166 00:07:55,967 --> 00:08:00,837 aligned our interests are on all of the issues that we discussed. 167 00:08:00,834 --> 00:08:03,234 First, on Afghanistan, there is no clearer, 168 00:08:03,233 --> 00:08:06,803 no more tangible illustration of Britain and America standing 169 00:08:06,800 --> 00:08:09,700 shoulder to shoulder in our national interest than this 170 00:08:09,700 --> 00:08:12,200 mission that we are engaged in together. 171 00:08:12,200 --> 00:08:15,170 We have British troops working to an American commander in 172 00:08:15,166 --> 00:08:18,296 Helmand, and we have American troops working to a British 173 00:08:18,300 --> 00:08:20,130 commander in Kandahar. 174 00:08:20,133 --> 00:08:23,063 Today, President Obama and I took stock of progress 175 00:08:23,066 --> 00:08:24,466 in this vital year. 176 00:08:24,467 --> 00:08:27,497 We reaffirmed our commitment to the overall strategy. 177 00:08:27,500 --> 00:08:30,970 A key part of that is training the Afghan national army and 178 00:08:30,967 --> 00:08:33,467 police so they can provide security for their country 179 00:08:33,467 --> 00:08:35,697 and our troops can come home. 180 00:08:35,700 --> 00:08:38,370 We also agreed on the need to reinvigorate the political 181 00:08:38,367 --> 00:08:40,837 strategy for Afghanistan. 182 00:08:40,834 --> 00:08:42,864 Insurgencies tend not to be defeated by 183 00:08:42,867 --> 00:08:44,437 military means alone. 184 00:08:44,433 --> 00:08:46,603 There must also be political settlement. 185 00:08:46,600 --> 00:08:49,370 And to those people currently fighting, 186 00:08:49,367 --> 00:08:51,867 if they give up violence, if they cut themselves off from 187 00:08:51,867 --> 00:08:55,037 al Qaeda, if they accept the basic tenets of the Afghan 188 00:08:55,033 --> 00:08:57,633 constitution, they can have a future in a 189 00:08:57,633 --> 00:09:00,163 peaceful Afghanistan. 190 00:09:00,166 --> 00:09:01,436 There is real progress. 191 00:09:01,433 --> 00:09:04,033 Last weekend, the first Afghan-led military operation 192 00:09:04,033 --> 00:09:06,063 took place successfully in Helmand, 193 00:09:06,066 --> 00:09:07,836 Afghans defending themselves. 194 00:09:07,834 --> 00:09:10,364 And today, as Barack has just said, 195 00:09:10,367 --> 00:09:13,137 for the first time in decades, the government of Afghanistan 196 00:09:13,133 --> 00:09:17,003 has hosted an international conference on its own soil. 197 00:09:17,000 --> 00:09:20,570 Over 40 foreign ministers and 80 delegations assembled in 198 00:09:20,567 --> 00:09:23,367 Kabul to monitor progress and drive forward the 199 00:09:23,367 --> 00:09:25,237 international strategy. 200 00:09:25,233 --> 00:09:27,133 That is a real achievement, and we should congratulate 201 00:09:27,133 --> 00:09:29,903 President Karzai on it. 202 00:09:29,900 --> 00:09:32,630 President Obama and I also discussed the economy. 203 00:09:32,633 --> 00:09:35,403 We're both taking action that our countries need. 204 00:09:35,400 --> 00:09:38,570 Our destination is a strong and stable growth, 205 00:09:38,567 --> 00:09:42,097 a sustained economic recovery, and a reformed financial system 206 00:09:42,100 --> 00:09:46,100 that will never again be open to the abuses of the past. 207 00:09:46,100 --> 00:09:48,570 We are confident that the right steps were taken at the Toronto 208 00:09:48,567 --> 00:09:51,497 G20 summit to help achieve that. 209 00:09:51,500 --> 00:09:54,770 The Middle East was the third area that we focused on today. 210 00:09:54,767 --> 00:09:57,997 We both want a secure, peaceful and stable Middle East. 211 00:09:58,000 --> 00:10:01,630 And that means two things: First, as Barack has just said, 212 00:10:01,633 --> 00:10:04,403 Iran must give up its pursuit of a nuclear weapon. 213 00:10:04,400 --> 00:10:07,270 We urge the Iranian regime to resume negotiations 214 00:10:07,266 --> 00:10:10,796 with the international community without delay. 215 00:10:10,800 --> 00:10:13,230 It's not too late for it to do so. 216 00:10:13,233 --> 00:10:15,303 America and Britain, with our partners, 217 00:10:15,300 --> 00:10:18,870 stand ready to negotiate, and to do so in good faith. 218 00:10:18,867 --> 00:10:20,867 But in the absence of a willing partner, 219 00:10:20,867 --> 00:10:24,737 we will implement with vigor the sanctions package agreed by the 220 00:10:24,734 --> 00:10:28,334 United Nations Security Council, and in Europe we will be taking 221 00:10:28,333 --> 00:10:30,503 further steps as well. 222 00:10:30,500 --> 00:10:33,270 Second, we desperately need a two-state solution between 223 00:10:33,266 --> 00:10:36,136 Israel and the Palestinians that provides security, 224 00:10:36,133 --> 00:10:38,003 justice and hope. 225 00:10:38,000 --> 00:10:39,900 As we were discussing over lunch, 226 00:10:39,900 --> 00:10:43,230 it is time for direct talks, not least because it is time 227 00:10:43,233 --> 00:10:47,033 for each, Israel and Palestine, to test the 228 00:10:47,033 --> 00:10:49,463 seriousness of the other. 229 00:10:49,467 --> 00:10:52,897 On BP, which we discussed at some length, 230 00:10:52,900 --> 00:10:55,370 I completely understand the anger that exists 231 00:10:55,367 --> 00:10:57,137 right across America. 232 00:10:57,133 --> 00:11:00,463 The oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico is a catastrophe 233 00:11:00,467 --> 00:11:03,867 -- for the environment, for the fishing industry, for tourism. 234 00:11:03,867 --> 00:11:06,337 I've been absolutely clear about that. 235 00:11:06,333 --> 00:11:09,563 And like President Obama, I've also been clear that it is BP's 236 00:11:09,567 --> 00:11:12,737 role to cap the leak, to clean up the mess, 237 00:11:12,734 --> 00:11:15,264 and to pay appropriate compensation. 238 00:11:15,266 --> 00:11:18,166 I'm in regular touch with senior management at BP, 239 00:11:18,166 --> 00:11:21,436 and the President is, too, to make sure that happens. 240 00:11:21,433 --> 00:11:24,103 And the progress that's been made to cap the leak is a step 241 00:11:24,100 --> 00:11:25,470 in the right direction. 242 00:11:25,467 --> 00:11:29,367 Equally, of course, BP is an important company to both the 243 00:11:29,367 --> 00:11:31,597 British and the American economies. 244 00:11:31,600 --> 00:11:34,800 Thousands of jobs on both sides of the Atlantic depend on it. 245 00:11:34,800 --> 00:11:37,830 So it's in the interest of both our countries, as we agreed, 246 00:11:37,834 --> 00:11:41,004 that it remains a strong and stable company for the future. 247 00:11:41,000 --> 00:11:43,400 And that's something we discussed today. 248 00:11:43,400 --> 00:11:48,200 And let us not confuse the oil spill with the Libyan bomber. 249 00:11:48,200 --> 00:11:50,630 I've been absolutely clear about this right from the start, 250 00:11:50,633 --> 00:11:54,503 and in our meeting we had what we call a "violent agreement," 251 00:11:54,500 --> 00:11:57,070 which is that releasing the Lockerbie bomber, 252 00:11:57,066 --> 00:12:01,196 a mass murderer of 270 people, the largest act of terrorism 253 00:12:01,200 --> 00:12:05,200 ever committed in the United Kingdom, was completely wrong. 254 00:12:05,200 --> 00:12:07,830 He showed his victims no compassion. 255 00:12:07,834 --> 00:12:10,804 They were not allowed to die in their beds at home, 256 00:12:10,800 --> 00:12:12,500 surrounded by their families. 257 00:12:12,500 --> 00:12:15,270 So in my view, neither should that callous killer have been 258 00:12:15,266 --> 00:12:16,866 given that luxury. 259 00:12:16,867 --> 00:12:18,737 That wasn't a decision taken by BP; 260 00:12:18,734 --> 00:12:21,564 it was a decision taken by the Scottish government. 261 00:12:21,567 --> 00:12:23,967 We have to accept that under the laws of my country, 262 00:12:23,967 --> 00:12:26,837 where power on certain issues is devolved to Scotland, 263 00:12:26,834 --> 00:12:29,204 this was a decision for the Scottish Executive, 264 00:12:29,200 --> 00:12:31,100 a decision that they took. 265 00:12:31,100 --> 00:12:32,600 I know that Senator Kerry's committee is 266 00:12:32,600 --> 00:12:33,930 looking into these issues. 267 00:12:33,934 --> 00:12:35,904 My government will engage constructively 268 00:12:35,900 --> 00:12:36,700 with those hearings. 269 00:12:36,700 --> 00:12:38,830 And, indeed, my foreign secretary has already set 270 00:12:38,834 --> 00:12:40,804 out the government's position. 271 00:12:40,800 --> 00:12:43,970 So let me thank you again, Barack, for hosting me today. 272 00:12:43,967 --> 00:12:46,597 While at the World Cup, our teams could only manage 273 00:12:46,600 --> 00:12:48,230 a score draw. 274 00:12:48,233 --> 00:12:51,363 I believe our relationship can be a win-win. 275 00:12:51,367 --> 00:12:56,437 And, yes, I did enjoy drinking the 312 beer -- cold -- during 276 00:12:56,433 --> 00:12:57,433 the World Cup. 277 00:12:57,433 --> 00:12:58,763 (laughter) 278 00:12:58,767 --> 00:13:01,767 I enjoyed it so much that when I watched Germany beat Argentina, 279 00:13:01,767 --> 00:13:03,497 I actually cheered for Germany. 280 00:13:03,500 --> 00:13:05,930 That's something that's a big admission for a British person 281 00:13:05,934 --> 00:13:07,604 to make, so the beer is obviously very effective. 282 00:13:07,600 --> 00:13:08,530 (laughter) 283 00:13:08,533 --> 00:13:11,703 But what you -- what you said, Barack, though, 284 00:13:11,700 --> 00:13:16,670 about British and American soldiers fighting together, 285 00:13:16,667 --> 00:13:19,597 sometimes dying together, serving together, 286 00:13:19,600 --> 00:13:20,930 is absolutely right. 287 00:13:20,934 --> 00:13:24,304 And we should never forget that -- whether it's on the beaches 288 00:13:24,300 --> 00:13:28,030 of Normandy, whether it's in Korea, whether in Iraq, 289 00:13:28,033 --> 00:13:30,403 or whether now in Afghanistan. 290 00:13:30,400 --> 00:13:34,270 Our relationship is one that has an incredibly rich history. 291 00:13:34,266 --> 00:13:37,966 It is based on ties of culture and history and, 292 00:13:37,967 --> 00:13:40,067 yes, emotion, too. 293 00:13:40,066 --> 00:13:43,436 But for all those things, I think it has also an incredibly 294 00:13:43,433 --> 00:13:47,403 strong future that is based on results -- results of a positive 295 00:13:47,400 --> 00:13:50,800 partnership of working together, agreeing where we agree; 296 00:13:50,800 --> 00:13:53,630 when we have disagreements, working through them and 297 00:13:53,633 --> 00:13:55,663 coming to a fair conclusion. 298 00:13:55,667 --> 00:13:58,667 It's a partnership that I profoundly want to make work 299 00:13:58,667 --> 00:14:01,767 as well as it possibly can in the years that I'm Prime 300 00:14:01,767 --> 00:14:05,137 Minister of Britain and with you as President of the United States. 301 00:14:05,133 --> 00:14:07,103 So thank you again for welcoming me here today. 302 00:14:07,100 --> 00:14:08,630 President Obama: Thank you, David. 303 00:14:08,633 --> 00:14:11,033 With that, we're going to take a few questions. 304 00:14:11,033 --> 00:14:16,363 And I'm going to start with Mimi Hall of USA Today. 305 00:14:16,367 --> 00:14:19,737 The Press: Thank you, Mr. President and Mr. Prime Minister. 306 00:14:19,734 --> 00:14:23,464 I wanted to ask you a little bit more about BP. 307 00:14:23,467 --> 00:14:25,637 You mentioned, Mr. Prime Minister, 308 00:14:25,633 --> 00:14:28,463 your decision to cooperate, et cetera, 309 00:14:28,467 --> 00:14:31,067 but you said we shouldn't confuse the two. 310 00:14:31,066 --> 00:14:33,566 Have you flatly ruled out opening a government 311 00:14:33,567 --> 00:14:37,697 investigation into the events around the release 312 00:14:37,700 --> 00:14:38,830 of the bomber? 313 00:14:38,834 --> 00:14:43,064 And, President Obama, how do you feel about a congressional 314 00:14:43,066 --> 00:14:44,336 investigation into this? 315 00:14:44,333 --> 00:14:46,733 Would you like to see that happen, 316 00:14:46,734 --> 00:14:49,164 or do you think that confuses the two events? 317 00:14:49,166 --> 00:14:56,036 President Obama: Well, why don't I start off and I'll throw it over to David. 318 00:14:56,033 --> 00:15:01,463 I think all of us here in the United States were surprised, 319 00:15:01,467 --> 00:15:05,697 disappointed, and angry about the release of the 320 00:15:05,700 --> 00:15:07,370 Lockerbie bomber. 321 00:15:07,367 --> 00:15:12,437 And my administration expressed very clearly our objections 322 00:15:12,433 --> 00:15:16,433 prior to the decision being made and subsequent to the 323 00:15:16,433 --> 00:15:18,803 decision being made. 324 00:15:18,800 --> 00:15:23,730 So we welcome any additional information that will give 325 00:15:23,734 --> 00:15:27,434 us insights and a better understanding of why the 326 00:15:27,433 --> 00:15:28,933 decision was made. 327 00:15:28,934 --> 00:15:34,304 But I think that the key thing to understand here is that we've 328 00:15:34,300 --> 00:15:39,270 got a British Prime Minister who shares our anger over the 329 00:15:39,266 --> 00:15:49,036 decision, who also objects to how it played out. 330 00:15:49,033 --> 00:15:54,163 And so I'm fully supportive of Prime Minister Cameron's efforts 331 00:15:54,166 --> 00:15:57,766 to gain a better understanding of it, to clarify it. 332 00:15:57,767 --> 00:16:01,337 But the bottom line is, is that we all disagreed with it. 333 00:16:01,333 --> 00:16:02,763 It was a bad decision. 334 00:16:02,767 --> 00:16:09,697 And going forward, that has to inform how we approach our 335 00:16:09,700 --> 00:16:12,830 relationship with respect to counterterrorism generally. 336 00:16:12,834 --> 00:16:15,104 Now, one of the things that I want to emphasize that I think 337 00:16:15,100 --> 00:16:19,870 may get lost in this current debate is the extraordinarily 338 00:16:19,867 --> 00:16:22,797 strong ties between our two countries when it comes to 339 00:16:22,800 --> 00:16:24,470 fighting terrorism. 340 00:16:24,467 --> 00:16:30,097 We probably have the best coordination and cooperation of 341 00:16:30,100 --> 00:16:32,170 any two countries in the world. 342 00:16:32,166 --> 00:16:38,866 And those relationships are vital and they keep people safe 343 00:16:38,867 --> 00:16:40,837 on both sides of the Atlantic. 344 00:16:40,834 --> 00:16:46,704 And I want to make sure that even as we may express concern 345 00:16:46,700 --> 00:16:49,830 about what happened with respect to the release of this 346 00:16:49,834 --> 00:16:54,764 particular individual, that we stay focused on the cooperation 347 00:16:54,767 --> 00:16:57,737 that currently exists and build on that cooperation, 348 00:16:57,734 --> 00:17:03,264 to make sure that there is no diminution of our joint efforts 349 00:17:03,266 --> 00:17:05,936 to make sure that the kinds of attacks that happened over 350 00:17:05,934 --> 00:17:09,434 Lockerbie do not happen again. 351 00:17:09,433 --> 00:17:11,963 Prime Minister Cameron: Well, I agree with actually what's been said about the 352 00:17:11,967 --> 00:17:13,737 importance of the security cooperation -- 353 00:17:13,734 --> 00:17:15,334 something we discussed today. 354 00:17:15,333 --> 00:17:20,103 On Megrahi, look, I'm not standing here today and saying 355 00:17:20,100 --> 00:17:23,270 it was a bad decision to release Megrahi because I'm here. 356 00:17:23,266 --> 00:17:25,366 I said this a year ago, at the time, 357 00:17:25,367 --> 00:17:27,137 that it was a bad decision. 358 00:17:27,133 --> 00:17:28,433 It shouldn't have been made. 359 00:17:28,433 --> 00:17:30,903 The British government, as well, should have been clear that it 360 00:17:30,900 --> 00:17:33,900 was a bad decision, rather than going along with it. 361 00:17:33,900 --> 00:17:35,670 I took that very clear view. 362 00:17:35,667 --> 00:17:37,767 This was the biggest mass murderer in British history 363 00:17:37,767 --> 00:17:41,397 and there was no business in letting him out of prison. 364 00:17:41,400 --> 00:17:44,870 In terms of an inquiry, there has been an inquiry by the 365 00:17:44,867 --> 00:17:48,397 Scottish Parliament into the way the decision was made. 366 00:17:48,400 --> 00:17:50,270 The British government -- the last British government -- 367 00:17:50,266 --> 00:17:53,636 released a whole heap of information about this decision. 368 00:17:53,633 --> 00:17:56,433 But I've asked the Cabinet Secretary today to go back 369 00:17:56,433 --> 00:17:59,133 through all of the paperwork and see if more needs to be 370 00:17:59,133 --> 00:18:02,333 published about the background to this decision. 371 00:18:02,333 --> 00:18:05,233 But in terms of an inquiry, I'm not currently minded that 372 00:18:05,233 --> 00:18:09,433 we need to have a U.K.-based inquiry on this -- partly for 373 00:18:09,433 --> 00:18:12,463 this reason: I don't need an inquiry to tell me what was 374 00:18:12,467 --> 00:18:13,497 a bad decision. 375 00:18:13,500 --> 00:18:14,700 It was a bad decision. 376 00:18:14,700 --> 00:18:18,030 And if you like, the big fact that's changed over the year 377 00:18:18,033 --> 00:18:20,433 that makes it an even worse decision is the fact that, 378 00:18:20,433 --> 00:18:23,463 of course, Megrahi is still free, at liberty, in Libya, 379 00:18:23,467 --> 00:18:25,967 rather than serving the prison sentence in Scotland, 380 00:18:25,967 --> 00:18:27,297 as he should be doing. 381 00:18:27,300 --> 00:18:28,370 So that's what we're going to do, 382 00:18:28,367 --> 00:18:29,737 is go back over this information, 383 00:18:29,734 --> 00:18:31,804 see if more needs to be published, and of course, 384 00:18:31,800 --> 00:18:35,170 in terms of the congressional hearing, 385 00:18:35,166 --> 00:18:41,866 make sure that proper cooperation is extended to it. 386 00:18:41,867 --> 00:18:49,437 Right. I think, James Landale. 387 00:18:49,433 --> 00:18:51,833 The Press: Just to stay on that subject, if we may. 388 00:18:51,834 --> 00:18:53,764 Mr. Prime Minister, first of all, 389 00:18:53,767 --> 00:18:56,397 would you be prepared to talk to your predecessors, 390 00:18:56,400 --> 00:18:59,630 Tony Blair and Gordon Brown, to get there agreements to release 391 00:18:59,633 --> 00:19:04,233 any documents if they are relevant to the paper search 392 00:19:04,233 --> 00:19:06,133 that the Cabinet Secretary will undergo? 393 00:19:06,133 --> 00:19:10,003 And, Mr. President, can I ask you -- the Prime Minister says 394 00:19:10,000 --> 00:19:12,130 he opposes an inquiry. 395 00:19:12,133 --> 00:19:14,603 Hillary Clinton has demanded an inquiry. 396 00:19:14,600 --> 00:19:16,830 Where do you stand? 397 00:19:16,834 --> 00:19:19,864 Prime Minister Cameron: Well, first of all, on the documents, 398 00:19:19,867 --> 00:19:22,337 the proper process here is that the Cabinet Secretary should 399 00:19:22,333 --> 00:19:28,203 look back over this decision and the circumstances surrounding it 400 00:19:28,200 --> 00:19:30,470 should identify those documents that should be published. 401 00:19:30,467 --> 00:19:34,567 It should be right that ministers in the previous 402 00:19:34,567 --> 00:19:36,567 government should be consulted about the 403 00:19:36,567 --> 00:19:38,167 publication of those documents. 404 00:19:38,166 --> 00:19:41,336 And, of course, we will consult with them over that. 405 00:19:41,333 --> 00:19:44,933 But in my view, there is absolutely no harm to be done 406 00:19:44,934 --> 00:19:49,134 in giving the fullest possible explanation of the circumstances 407 00:19:49,133 --> 00:19:50,203 surrounding this decision. 408 00:19:50,200 --> 00:19:53,070 I think the key thing, though, to remember is that in the end 409 00:19:53,066 --> 00:19:56,566 it was a decision by the Scottish Executive. 410 00:19:56,567 --> 00:19:58,497 On the issue of an inquiry, as I said, 411 00:19:58,500 --> 00:20:01,230 I'm not currently minded to hold an inquiry because I think 412 00:20:01,233 --> 00:20:04,133 publishing this information, combined with the inquiry that 413 00:20:04,133 --> 00:20:07,003 has already been, will give people the certainty that they 414 00:20:07,000 --> 00:20:10,530 need about the circumstances surrounding this decision. 415 00:20:10,533 --> 00:20:13,263 But the key thing is to get the information out there 416 00:20:13,266 --> 00:20:14,296 so people can see. 417 00:20:14,300 --> 00:20:16,700 But I don't think there's any great mystery here. 418 00:20:16,700 --> 00:20:19,800 There was a decision taken by the Scottish Executive -- in 419 00:20:19,800 --> 00:20:22,530 my view, a wholly wrong and misguided decision, 420 00:20:22,533 --> 00:20:24,803 a bad decision, but the decision nonetheless. 421 00:20:24,800 --> 00:20:25,970 That's what happened. 422 00:20:25,967 --> 00:20:28,897 And I don't think we need an extra inquiry to tell us that 423 00:20:28,900 --> 00:20:29,770 that's what happened. 424 00:20:29,767 --> 00:20:32,937 But the information, as I said, will be gone over and published, 425 00:20:32,934 --> 00:20:34,004 as appropriate. 426 00:20:34,000 --> 00:20:35,970 And of course, I'll be consulting with 427 00:20:35,967 --> 00:20:38,037 previous ministers and prime ministers, 428 00:20:38,033 --> 00:20:40,663 as you should do in the normal way. 429 00:20:40,667 --> 00:20:45,367 President Obama: I think the simple answer is we should have all the facts; 430 00:20:45,367 --> 00:20:47,237 they should be laid out there. 431 00:20:47,233 --> 00:20:51,103 And I have confidence that Prime Minister Cameron's government 432 00:20:51,100 --> 00:20:55,770 will be cooperative in making sure that the facts are there. 433 00:20:55,767 --> 00:20:58,337 That will not negate the fact that, 434 00:20:58,333 --> 00:21:03,263 as the Prime Minister indicated, it was a very poor decision and 435 00:21:03,266 --> 00:21:08,596 one that not only ran contrary to, I think, 436 00:21:08,600 --> 00:21:10,800 how we should be treating terrorists, 437 00:21:10,800 --> 00:21:15,530 but also didn't reflect the incredible pain that the 438 00:21:15,533 --> 00:21:18,563 families who were affected still suffer to this day. 439 00:21:18,567 --> 00:21:21,167 And my administration is in regular contact with these 440 00:21:21,166 --> 00:21:27,036 families, and this was a heartbreaking decision for 441 00:21:27,033 --> 00:21:30,633 them that reopened a whole host of new wounds. 442 00:21:30,633 --> 00:21:36,503 So my expectation is, is that the facts will be out there and, 443 00:21:36,500 --> 00:21:40,230 as David indicated, with all the facts out, 444 00:21:40,233 --> 00:21:43,163 I think we're going to be back to where we are right now, 445 00:21:43,166 --> 00:21:48,836 which it was a decision that should not have been made and 446 00:21:48,834 --> 00:21:52,634 one that we should learn from going forward. 447 00:21:52,633 --> 00:21:57,203 Laura Meckler. 448 00:21:57,200 --> 00:21:59,400 The Press: Thank you. 449 00:21:59,400 --> 00:22:02,500 Mr. President, in your opening statement you referred to the 450 00:22:02,500 --> 00:22:06,570 fact that the British government has been taking some very tough 451 00:22:06,567 --> 00:22:09,137 steps towards -- to get their budget in order, 452 00:22:09,133 --> 00:22:12,503 and you said you had committed to cut the deficit in half. 453 00:22:12,500 --> 00:22:16,430 Could you talk about whether you think that those decisions are 454 00:22:16,433 --> 00:22:18,533 going to be -- the decisions that they're making there are 455 00:22:18,533 --> 00:22:20,663 going to be needed to be made here on a similar 456 00:22:20,667 --> 00:22:22,937 level beyond pledges? 457 00:22:22,934 --> 00:22:26,234 And, Mr. Prime Minister, specifically could you address 458 00:22:26,233 --> 00:22:31,733 the matter of what role BP had in lobbying for the release of 459 00:22:31,734 --> 00:22:34,804 this man, and whether an inquiry or the review that you're 460 00:22:34,800 --> 00:22:37,170 planning is going to look at that specific question? 461 00:22:37,166 --> 00:22:40,966 Thank you. 462 00:22:40,967 --> 00:22:48,297 President Obama: When I came into office in January of 2009, 463 00:22:48,300 --> 00:22:52,730 I was very clear at the time, even before we knew the severity 464 00:22:52,734 --> 00:22:57,934 of the recession that we would experience, 465 00:22:57,934 --> 00:23:03,834 that we have a structural deficit that is unsustainable, 466 00:23:03,834 --> 00:23:07,204 and that for our long-term growth and prosperity we are 467 00:23:07,200 --> 00:23:09,930 going to have to get a handle on that. 468 00:23:09,934 --> 00:23:12,134 I talked about that during my campaign. 469 00:23:12,133 --> 00:23:15,863 I talked about it in the days after I was elected. 470 00:23:15,867 --> 00:23:20,137 I talked about it after I had been sworn in. 471 00:23:20,133 --> 00:23:23,263 We had an emergency situation on our hands, 472 00:23:23,266 --> 00:23:27,396 and so the entire world, working through the G20, 473 00:23:27,400 --> 00:23:32,830 coordinated in making sure that we filled this huge 474 00:23:32,834 --> 00:23:34,764 drop-off in demand. 475 00:23:34,767 --> 00:23:37,437 We got the economy growing again. 476 00:23:37,433 --> 00:23:39,363 And we had to take a number of steps, 477 00:23:39,367 --> 00:23:41,697 some of which were unpopular and that, yes, 478 00:23:41,700 --> 00:23:44,430 added to the short-term deficit. 479 00:23:44,433 --> 00:23:47,933 What I also said at the time was we are then going to make sure, 480 00:23:47,934 --> 00:23:52,504 number one, that we pay down whatever additional deficit had 481 00:23:52,500 --> 00:23:56,930 been added as a consequence of the Recovery Act and other steps 482 00:23:56,934 --> 00:23:59,334 that we had to take last year. 483 00:23:59,333 --> 00:24:00,803 But then we're still going to have to go back and deal 484 00:24:00,800 --> 00:24:04,000 with these long-term structural deficits. 485 00:24:04,000 --> 00:24:09,300 And, in fact, in the first G20 visit that I made, 486 00:24:09,300 --> 00:24:14,870 in April to England, I was very clear to the rest of the world 487 00:24:14,867 --> 00:24:19,967 that what they cannot rely on is an economic model in which 488 00:24:19,967 --> 00:24:23,437 the United States borrows -- consumers in the United 489 00:24:23,433 --> 00:24:25,263 States borrow, we take out home equity loans, 490 00:24:25,266 --> 00:24:27,836 we run up credit cards to purchase goods from 491 00:24:27,834 --> 00:24:28,634 all around the world. 492 00:24:28,633 --> 00:24:33,333 We cannot alone be the economic engine for the 493 00:24:33,333 --> 00:24:35,063 rest of the world's growth. 494 00:24:35,066 --> 00:24:38,696 So that rebalancing ended up being a central part of 495 00:24:38,700 --> 00:24:42,300 our long-term strategy working with the G20. 496 00:24:42,300 --> 00:24:47,770 Now, what we've done is we've initiated a freeze on our 497 00:24:47,767 --> 00:24:49,967 domestic discretionary budget. 498 00:24:49,967 --> 00:24:54,767 We are on the path to cutting our deficits in half. 499 00:24:54,767 --> 00:24:57,767 We have put forward a fiscal commission that is then going 500 00:24:57,767 --> 00:24:59,397 to examine how do we deal with these broader 501 00:24:59,400 --> 00:25:01,200 structural deficits? 502 00:25:01,200 --> 00:25:02,930 So this isn't just an empty promise. 503 00:25:02,934 --> 00:25:05,434 We've already started taking steps to deal with it, 504 00:25:05,433 --> 00:25:08,833 and we're going to be very aggressive in how 505 00:25:08,834 --> 00:25:09,504 we deal with it. 506 00:25:09,500 --> 00:25:14,400 Now, our two countries are in slightly different situations. 507 00:25:14,400 --> 00:25:18,000 Their financial situation is slightly different; 508 00:25:18,000 --> 00:25:23,400 their levels of debt relative to GDP are somewhat higher. 509 00:25:23,400 --> 00:25:27,170 And as David and I discussed when we saw each other in 510 00:25:27,166 --> 00:25:30,196 Toronto, the goal here is the same, 511 00:25:30,200 --> 00:25:32,500 and we're all moving in the same direction. 512 00:25:32,500 --> 00:25:35,900 But there's going to be differentiation based on the 513 00:25:35,900 --> 00:25:38,070 different circumstances of different countries in terms 514 00:25:38,066 --> 00:25:41,636 of how they approach it tactically and at what pace. 515 00:25:41,633 --> 00:25:51,063 But I can assure you this, that my administration is squarely 516 00:25:51,066 --> 00:25:54,636 committed not just to dealing with the short-term deficit and 517 00:25:54,633 --> 00:25:57,903 debt -- which in some ways is the least troubling aspect of 518 00:25:57,900 --> 00:26:01,830 this problem -- what we're going to have to tackle are some big 519 00:26:01,834 --> 00:26:05,334 structural reforms that are going to be tough. 520 00:26:05,333 --> 00:26:06,733 And they're going to be that much tougher because we're 521 00:26:06,734 --> 00:26:09,604 coming out of a recession as we do it. 522 00:26:09,600 --> 00:26:15,100 But I think that as we continue to see economic growth, 523 00:26:15,100 --> 00:26:19,970 as we continue to see the economy heal from last year that 524 00:26:19,967 --> 00:26:23,897 the American people are going to want to approach this problem in 525 00:26:23,900 --> 00:26:25,470 a serious, realistic way. 526 00:26:25,467 --> 00:26:27,537 We owe it for the next generation. 527 00:26:27,533 --> 00:26:30,533 And my hope is, is that we're going to end up getting a 528 00:26:30,533 --> 00:26:36,063 bipartisan solution to this thing that is realistic. 529 00:26:36,066 --> 00:26:38,236 And one concern that I have obviously is the politics 530 00:26:38,233 --> 00:26:40,203 of deficits and debt. 531 00:26:40,200 --> 00:26:44,270 When I announced that I was in favor of this fiscal commission, 532 00:26:44,266 --> 00:26:49,666 at the time I had a number of Republicans who were cosponsors 533 00:26:49,667 --> 00:26:52,937 of the legislation who suddenly reversed themselves because -- 534 00:26:52,934 --> 00:26:55,204 I suppose -- I supported it. 535 00:26:55,200 --> 00:26:58,270 And, fortunately, what I've seen so far, 536 00:26:58,266 --> 00:27:01,236 all the reports from the fiscal commission is that people are 537 00:27:01,233 --> 00:27:02,733 serious about this. 538 00:27:02,734 --> 00:27:05,034 Both Republicans and Democrats on the commission are taking 539 00:27:05,033 --> 00:27:06,903 their task seriously. 540 00:27:06,900 --> 00:27:09,070 I think it's going to be a good report, 541 00:27:09,066 --> 00:27:10,966 but is still going to require some tough choices, 542 00:27:10,967 --> 00:27:16,297 and we're committing to pursuing those tough choices after we get 543 00:27:16,300 --> 00:27:18,400 that report. 544 00:27:18,400 --> 00:27:21,730 Prime Minister Cameron: Thank you. You asked about the role of BP. 545 00:27:21,734 --> 00:27:25,234 I mean, the role of BP and any lobbying they might have done is 546 00:27:25,233 --> 00:27:27,763 an issue for BP and an issue that they should 547 00:27:27,767 --> 00:27:29,567 explain themselves. 548 00:27:29,567 --> 00:27:31,837 I mean, the decision to release Megrahi, though, 549 00:27:31,834 --> 00:27:34,504 was a decision made by the Scottish government, 550 00:27:34,500 --> 00:27:37,670 and I haven't seen anything to suggest that the Scottish 551 00:27:37,667 --> 00:27:40,867 government were in any way swayed by BP. 552 00:27:40,867 --> 00:27:44,267 They were swayed by their considerations about the need 553 00:27:44,266 --> 00:27:46,866 to release him on compassionate grounds -- grounds that I think 554 00:27:46,867 --> 00:27:47,967 were completely wrong. 555 00:27:47,967 --> 00:27:50,867 I don't think it's right to show compassion to a mass 556 00:27:50,867 --> 00:27:51,797 murderer like that. 557 00:27:51,800 --> 00:27:52,870 I think it was wrong. 558 00:27:52,867 --> 00:27:57,067 But it's a matter for BP to answer what 559 00:27:57,066 --> 00:27:58,396 activities they undertook. 560 00:27:58,400 --> 00:28:01,030 But the Scottish government made its decision and has explained 561 00:28:01,033 --> 00:28:02,733 its decision on many occasions and I'm sure 562 00:28:02,734 --> 00:28:04,964 will explain it again. 563 00:28:04,967 --> 00:28:10,167 I'm very keen that we are clear here that BP should, rightly, 564 00:28:10,166 --> 00:28:13,396 be blamed for what has happened in the Gulf, 565 00:28:13,400 --> 00:28:15,770 and have real responsibilities to cap the well, 566 00:28:15,767 --> 00:28:18,767 to clean up the spill, to pay compensation -- all of which 567 00:28:18,767 --> 00:28:21,167 they are getting on with, including putting aside the 20 568 00:28:21,166 --> 00:28:25,196 billion pounds in the escrow account -- $20 billion -- sorry. 569 00:28:25,200 --> 00:28:27,700 I think they've made good progress on that and further 570 00:28:27,700 --> 00:28:29,100 progress needs to be made. 571 00:28:29,100 --> 00:28:31,730 I think it's important to separate that from the decision 572 00:28:31,734 --> 00:28:33,534 to release al-Megrahi, which, as I say, 573 00:28:33,533 --> 00:28:36,063 was a decision made by the Scottish government and, 574 00:28:36,066 --> 00:28:39,666 as so far has been shown in investigations by the Scottish 575 00:28:39,667 --> 00:28:42,667 parliament, was a decision which I wholly disagree with but, 576 00:28:42,667 --> 00:28:46,997 nonetheless, was taken in an appropriate way. 577 00:28:47,000 --> 00:28:53,930 I think we have a question from Tom Bradby. 578 00:28:53,934 --> 00:28:55,664 The Press: Mr. President, Tom Bradby, ITV News. 579 00:28:55,667 --> 00:28:58,097 Quite a lot of people in the U.K. feel that 580 00:28:58,100 --> 00:29:01,100 your determination as a country to continue to push for the 581 00:29:01,100 --> 00:29:05,270 extradition of computer hacker and Asperger's sufferer, Gary 582 00:29:05,266 --> 00:29:08,996 McKinnon is disproportionate and somewhat harsh. 583 00:29:09,000 --> 00:29:11,570 Do you think it is time now to consider some leniency 584 00:29:11,567 --> 00:29:12,867 in this case? 585 00:29:12,867 --> 00:29:14,937 And, Prime Minister, you've expressed very strong views 586 00:29:14,934 --> 00:29:17,234 on this matter, suggesting that Mr. McKinnon shouldn't 587 00:29:17,233 --> 00:29:17,863 be extradited. 588 00:29:17,867 --> 00:29:20,937 Your Deputy Prime Minister has expressed even stronger views. 589 00:29:20,934 --> 00:29:22,664 Did you discuss that with the President today? 590 00:29:22,667 --> 00:29:26,297 And if not, would now be a good moment to share your views with 591 00:29:26,300 --> 00:29:28,230 us once again? 592 00:29:28,233 --> 00:29:29,203 Prime Minister Cameron: Shall I go? 593 00:29:29,200 --> 00:29:31,000 President Obama: Please, go ahead. 594 00:29:31,000 --> 00:29:35,270 Prime Minister Cameron: It is something that we discussed in our meeting. 595 00:29:35,266 --> 00:29:39,166 I mean, clearly there's a discussion going on between 596 00:29:39,166 --> 00:29:40,766 the British and the Americans about this, 597 00:29:40,767 --> 00:29:44,237 and I don't want to prejudice those discussions. 598 00:29:44,233 --> 00:29:50,103 We completely understand that Gary McKinnon stands accused of 599 00:29:50,100 --> 00:29:55,330 a very important and significant crime in terms of hacking into 600 00:29:55,333 --> 00:29:56,603 vital databases. 601 00:29:56,600 --> 00:29:59,130 And nobody denies that that is an important crime that 602 00:29:59,133 --> 00:30:00,733 has to be considered. 603 00:30:00,734 --> 00:30:03,304 But I have had conversations with the U.S. 604 00:30:03,300 --> 00:30:06,670 ambassador, as well as raising it today with the President, 605 00:30:06,667 --> 00:30:11,737 about this issue, and I hope a way through can be found. 606 00:30:11,734 --> 00:30:17,304 President Obama: Well, one of the things that David and I discussed was the 607 00:30:17,300 --> 00:30:21,670 increasing challenge that we're going to face as a consequence 608 00:30:21,667 --> 00:30:25,537 of the Internet and the need for us to cooperate extensively 609 00:30:25,533 --> 00:30:31,263 on issues of cyber security. 610 00:30:31,266 --> 00:30:36,596 We had a brief discussion about the fact that although there may 611 00:30:36,600 --> 00:30:41,800 still be efforts to send in spies and try to obtain state 612 00:30:41,800 --> 00:30:44,730 secrets through traditional Cold War methods, 613 00:30:44,734 --> 00:30:46,704 the truth of the matter is these days, 614 00:30:46,700 --> 00:30:49,000 where we're going to see enormous vulnerability when 615 00:30:49,000 --> 00:30:52,900 it comes to information is going to be through these 616 00:30:52,900 --> 00:31:01,030 kind of breaches in our information systems. 617 00:31:01,033 --> 00:31:03,033 So we take this very seriously. 618 00:31:03,033 --> 00:31:06,633 And I know that the British government does, as well. 619 00:31:06,633 --> 00:31:11,833 Beyond that, one of the traditions we have is the 620 00:31:11,834 --> 00:31:15,064 President doesn't get involved in decisions 621 00:31:15,066 --> 00:31:18,836 around prosecutions, extradition matters. 622 00:31:18,834 --> 00:31:21,364 So what I expect is that my team will follow the law, 623 00:31:21,367 --> 00:31:25,337 but they will also coordinate closely with what we've just 624 00:31:25,333 --> 00:31:32,103 stated is an ally that is unparalleled in terms of our 625 00:31:32,100 --> 00:31:33,470 cooperative relationship. 626 00:31:33,467 --> 00:31:36,937 And I trust that this will get resolved in a way that 627 00:31:36,934 --> 00:31:39,334 underscores the seriousness of the issue, 628 00:31:39,333 --> 00:31:44,803 but also underscores the fact that we work together and we can 629 00:31:44,800 --> 00:31:48,100 find an appropriate solution. 630 00:31:48,100 --> 00:31:48,730 All right? 631 00:31:48,734 --> 00:31:50,104 Thank you very much, everybody. 632 00:31:50,100 --> 00:31:51,330 Prime Minister Cameron: Thank you very much.