§ Mr. Strawasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what plans he has for relocating the staffs of his Department's social security local offices in Blackburn into a single building in or near the town centre; what stage these plans have reached; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. NewtonThe Property Services Agency is aware of our requirement to relocate the Blackburn social security offices into a single building as an integrated local office. The relocation of the Blackburn offices is a project of top priority and the PSA is urgently seeking suitable alternative premises. The most promising solution for the relocation of the Blackburn offices is dependent on a property expected to be put up for sale by auction. The PSA will in this case be in competition with other potential purchasers. My officials have been assured by the PSA that everything possible will be done to secure the property for DHSS.