Written question asked by Teddy Taylor (Conservative) on Monday, 21 March 2005, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 4 April 2005. It was answered by Lord Boateng (Labour) on Monday, 4 April 2005 on behalf of the Treasury.

Treasury

Question: To ask Mr Chancellor of the Exchequer, which departments and agencies he expects will be affected by the proposed reduction in Civil Service numbers; what account his Department has taken of local unemployment levels in preparation of these plans; and whether he expects that the proposed changes will affect civil servants employed in Southend-on-Sea.

Answer: Sir Teddy Taylor: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer which Departments and agencies he expects will be affected by the proposed reduction in civil service numbers; what account his Department has taken of local unemployment levels in preparation of these plans; and whether he expects that the proposed changes will affect civil servants employed in Southend- on-Sea. [223766] Mr. Boateng: The planned levels of reductions in total and in detail were set out in the Spending Review 2004 White Paper, and are summarised in Chapter 2, Table 2.2. It is for each Department to develop their own efficiency plans, including those for workforce reductions, taking into account their business needs. Departments are currently working through detailed implementation planning including location and local numbers, in consultation with all stakeholders including unions and staff. Departments will come forward with details of their plans as these are finalised. Jobcentre Plus is due to close a Social Security Office in Southend-on-Sea on 1 April 2007. It is anticipated that staff will move to the Basildon Benefit Processing Centre. In response to planned workforce changes, the Government have established the Efficiency and Relocation Support Programme to provide information and support to those affected.

Secondary information