HC Deb 23 January 1970 vol 794 cc224-6W
Mr. Farr

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services what is the total number of staff it is intended to maintain at the Department of Health and Social Security Office in Market Harborough after the proposed re-arrangements in the City and County of Leicester have been completed.

Mr. O'Malley

It is expected that one full-time officer, assisted as necessary at peak times, will be able to handle all inquiries from the public at Market Harborough.

Mr. Farr

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services what suitable alternative employment it is proposed to offer to those employees of the Department of Health and Social Security in Leicester City and County who become redundant as a result of the proposed local office rearrangement in the City and County of Leicester.

Mr. O'Malley

There will be no redundancy as a result of the reorganisation. If any officer affected by the transfer of work is unable to move to Leicester, every effort will be made to find suitable alternative employment nearer to his home.

Mr. Farr

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services what economy he estimates will be achieved in square footage of office space and in total number of employees as a result of the Department of Health and Social Security local office rearrangement in Leicester City and County on completion.

Mr. O'Malley

It is not possible at this stage to forecast accurately what economies will be achieved in space or manpower as a result of the proposed reorganisation, which is unlikely to be completed for at least three years. The three all-purpose offices which are planned for this area are intended to provide a better service to the public and better working conditions for the staff.