Question to the Department for Work and Pensions:

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, what assessment his Department has made of the effect on clients with sensory and mobility impairments, and those unable to travel independently of the closure of East Ham Jobcentre Plus.

Throughout the development of the proposals for East Ham Jobcentre the department has been mindful of the impact on staff and customers as part of its duties under section 149 of the Equality Act 2010. Statistical analysis of the potential impact of the proposals on people with the protected characteristics has informed high-level decision-making so far. As we obtain further local, site-specific information we will ensure any issues identified are also taken fully into consideration when the final decisions are made. Existing DWP processes make provision for those unable to travel independently to their designated Jobcentre.