§ Mr. Carter-Jonesasked the Secretary of State for Employment (1) what steps the Manpower Services Commission proposes to take to ensure that the job prospects of unemployed disabled people are not adversely 140W affected by the implementation of Sir Derek Rayner's recommendations for the closure of 125 jobcentres and local rural offices; and if he will make a statement;
(2) what assessment has been made of the implications for unemployed disabled people of the decision of the Manpower Services Commission to implement the recommendations of Sir Derek Rayner that 125 jobcentres and local rural offices should be closed; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Peter MorrisonThe Rayner report recommended review of the cost-effectiveness and operation of a number of local offices. The Manpower Services Commission has accepted the broad approach of the recommendations and will review the future of each office individually. The Commission has made it clear that in doing so it will take fully into account the needs of local job seekers, and consult local interests.