HC Deb 22 November 1983 vol 49 cc110-1W
Mr. Corbett

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services what proposals are currently under consideration to relocate his Department's offices in Birmingham; when a decision is expected to be made upon these; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Newton

The Department's local office network is kept under constant review to ensure a satisfactory level of service to the public in line with the economic use of resources. As part of this continuing process, the provision of local offices in Birmingham is kept under review but at present there is no proposal for relocating any Birmingham office.

Mr. Corbett

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services what proposals are currently under consideration to improve his Department's office at Kingsbury road, Erdington, Birmingham, for claimants and staff.

Mr. Newton

minor maintenance work is being undertaken but there are no plans for major structural alterations.

Mr. Corbett

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services what are the results of a recent inspection of his Department's office at Kingsbury road, Erdington, Birmingham, into problems with asbestos in the roof and other matters; what type of asbestos was found to be present; whether air tests were conducted; what were the results; whether there is any danger to either claimants or staff; and whether he will make a statement.

Mr. Newton

The recent inspection of the Department's office at Kingsbury road, Erdington, Birmingham, was carried out by the Property Services Agency of the Department of the Environment. It has confirmed that the external roof, which was already known to contain chrysotile — white — asbestos, remains in a satisfactory condition. It tested wallboards and ceiling tiles and found no evidence of asbestos. Atmospheric tests showed no significant levels of asbestos. We are satisfied that the safety standards for asbestos have been fully met at this office.