Defence Business Services 2022-12-12
2022-12-12
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The planned closure of Defence Business Services offices in the North West has been a concern for constituents who are worried about job relocation and commute difficulties.
Whether his Department has made an impact assessment of the planned closure of Defence Business Services offices in the North West. The movement of jobs will affect many staff and their families, with some facing commutes over two hours that may be unworkable due to train service issues and caring responsibilities or disabilities.
A regional economic impact assessment was undertaken during downselection but did not form part of the decision-making criteria. The consolidation into the Blackpool site meets key user requirements, is an opportunity to bring 700 posts to Blackpool from our other north-west sites, and contributes to the redevelopment at Talbot Gateway through the building of the new Government hub.
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Assessment & feedback
Whether his Department has made an impact assessment of the planned closure of Defence Business Services offices in the North West specifically considering its socio-economic impacts on employees and their families, and addressing concerns about commutes and job relocation.
A Regional Economic Impact Assessment Was Undertaken During Downselection But Did Not Form Part Of The Decision-Making Criteria.
Response accuracy
Q2
Direct Answer
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Context
The planned closure of the Ministry of Defence Business Services office in Liverpool has led to many constituents contacting Ian Byrne with concerns about job relocation and commute difficulties.
I thank the Minister for that answer, but I have had many constituents contact me about the planned closure of the Ministry of Defence Business Services office in Liverpool. The movement of jobs will affect them and their families. The new commute of more than two hours—especially with the train service at the moment—will be completely unworkable for many staff, particularly those with caring responsibilities or disabilities. Will the Minister meet me as soon as possible to discuss this situation so that I can share the deep concerns of my constituents with him?
Yes, of course, I will meet the hon. Gentleman. But there have actually been some good and constructive conversations with the unions, I am pleased to say, about trying to assist individuals who may want to go—we will try to assist and provide expenses. For those who do not, there is lots of work going on to ensure alternatives should they want to take them. But let us discuss it further—I would be very happy to do so.
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Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy