Jobcentre Plus Offices: Closure

Mhairi Black Excerpts
Monday 30th January 2017

(7 years, 3 months ago)

Commons Chamber
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Caroline Nokes Portrait Caroline Nokes
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Many jobseekers will already travel more than 4 miles to access their nearest jobcentre, and it is important that we remember not just that, but that people in employment will also be travelling significant distances in their daily commute. We are seeking the best solutions for individuals by looking at outreach and co-location—to find ways that people can access services online so that where possible we can minimise the disruption to their looking for work.

Mhairi Black Portrait Mhairi Black (Paisley and Renfrewshire South) (SNP)
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The DWP administration centre in my constituency is closing, and 300 jobs will be transferred out of Paisley. Has there been any assessment or consideration of the economic impact on the area? Has there been any consultation whatever; and if not, why not?

Caroline Nokes Portrait Caroline Nokes
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The most important aspect when it comes to relocations such as that one is, of course, the staff. That is why we have been working closely with all our DWP staff to make sure that we find roles for them elsewhere and give them the assistance they need, should we choose to relocate them.