Martin Docherty MP has condemned the Tory UK government after plans to close Alexandria Jobcentre were given the green light despite concerns about the impact it will have on vulnerable local residents.
In a statement to parliament, UK Minister of State for Employment Damian Hinds confirmed the Tories’ plans to proceed with a raft of DWP closures across the country including Alexandria Jobcentre.
Mr Docherty, MP for West Dunbartonshire, today voiced his concerns during parliamentary questions, demanding assurances from the UK Work and Pensions Secretary that DWP staff in West Dunbartonshire will not be put at risk by further cuts.
Commenting, Martin Docherty MP said:
“The closure of Alexandria Jobcentre will have a devastating impact on some of the most vulnerable residents in the Vale of Leven.
“Single parents, carers and people with disabilities all depend on Alexandria Jobcentre for help and advice on getting into work. It is these vulnerable groups who will be hit hardest by these closures – facing additional transport costs and increasing the risk of damaging sanctions that push the poorest in our communities further into poverty.
“It is deeply disappointing that the Tory UK government has decided to press ahead with these closures without taking account of the negative impact it will have on local residents.
“DWP and Jobcentre Plus staff in West Dunbartonshire are understandably concerned that local jobs are at risk of further cuts. The axing of these vital public services in West Dunbartonshire is completely unacceptable and I will continue to oppose them every step of the way.
“This is an opportunist cost-cutting exercise by a Tory UK government that continues to pursue its ill-conceived austerity agenda no matter the cost.”