Question to the Scotland Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, pursuant to the Answer of 14 December 2016 to Question 56916, on what date he was informed of the proposed jobcentre closures in Glasgow planned for 2018.

I have regular discussions with the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions in relation to a wide range of issues affecting Scotland. I met with representatives of DWP in July who provided an overview of DWP’s estates process in general, without detailing specific places.

DWP is currently reviewing its estate strategy on a nationwide basis, to ensure this best meets the current, medium and long-term needs for its business and work. By paying only for the space DWP needs it will help save several millions of pounds of taxpayers’ money.

However, DWP are carrying out local consultation to help inform decisions about additional provision such as outreach services, and prior to implementing any changes in relation to JobCentre Plus offices over three miles or 20 minutes away by public transport in the Glasgow area. This consultation is online and open until 31 January.