§ 40. Mr. E. L. Mallalieuasked the Minister of Pensions and National Insurance what is the economy expected from the proposed closing of the Brigg caller office of his Department.
§ The Joint Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Pensions and National Insurance (Miss Edith Pitt)It is not proposed to close the Brigg caller office but, in future, to open it on only two days a week. The proposal is linked with similar reductions in the hours of opening at two other caller offices. As a result, one clerk will be able to attend to the needs of all three offices, instead of three clerks as at present.
§ Mr. MallalieuWhile thanking the hon. Lady for that reply, which I am sure will give satisfaction locally, may I ask if she would not agree, when considering economy in such matters as this, that the expenses incurred in travelling and in loss of work by persons—for instance, from Brigg—having to go to Scunthorpe should also be taken into account?
§ Miss PittIt is certainly taken into account. Perhaps I can reassure the 879 hon. and learned Gentleman if I tell him that this proposal has the agreement of the Scunthorpe and District Local Advisory Committee, which represents all the people in that area.