HC Deb 13 March 1923 vol 161 cc1301-2W
Captain BERKELEY

asked the Minister of Pensions whether it is contemplated to transfer the East Midlands regional headquarters of the Ministry of Pensions from Nottingham to Birmingham; and, if so, whether, in view of the inconvenience this move would cause to some thousands of pensioners, many of whom have to make personal visits to this headquarters, he will reconsider the decision?

Mr. HAYDAY

asked the Minister of Pensions whether it is intended to transfer the East Midlands regional headquarters of the Ministry of Pensions from Nottingham and incorporate it with the West Midlands region at Birmingham; and, if such is contemplated, will he be prepared to receive a deputation before finally deciding on the contemplated change?

Captain CRAIG

In view of the actual and prospective reduction in the volume of pensions work, my right hon. Friend is obliged, in the interests of administrative economy, to consider what modifications are possible in the arrangements for its control. My right hon. Friend contemplates transferring to Birmingham the responsibility for the control of the Departmental machinery in the present East Midlands region. This transfer, however, will not cause inconvenience to pensioners, since it will not disturb the existing arrangements in that region for local area offices, medical boards, or treatment. The interests and convenience of pensioners will be fully safeguarded.

Mr. HANCOCK

asked the Minister of Pensions whether it is proposed to remove the regional headquarters from Nottingham; if so, where will they be removed to; has he considered the very serious inconvenience that would thereby be caused; and what does he propose doing with the staff of some 250 now employed there?

Major TRYON

I would refer the hon. Member to the answer given to-day to the hon. and gallant Member for the Central Division of Nottingham (Captain Berkeley), of which I am sending him a copy. I may add that the services of such members of the staff as are no longer required under the new arrangements will he dispensed with, but the change will he effected gradually, and reasonably long notice will be given to individuals concerned.