HC Deb 14 November 1988 vol 140 c730
2. Mr. Boateng

To ask the Secretary of State for Social Security whether he has any proposals to close social security offices in Brent.

The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Social Security (Mr. Peter Lloyd)

No, Sir, but one may move to better premises in the district.

Mr. Boateng

When will a final decision be taken about the relocation of offices in my constituency? Does the Minister recognise that the freeze on staff pending relocation is causing a deterioration in the service at existing offices in Brent? Will he undertake to consult local advice agencies, for example, the citizens advice bureau, law centres and the housing advice centre, before taking a final decision?

Mr. Lloyd

We intend to take a decision very shortly. I realise that the delay in taking the decision does not help the local staff situation, particularly as the problem that led to the decision to relocate stemmed from the difficulty of retaining and recruiting staff, which meant that services to claimants have not been as good as they should be. As it is a matter of improving services to the constituents of the hon. Member and others in Brent and inner London, we are sure that the agencies to which he referred will be pleased with the result in due course.

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