Written question asked by James Clappison (Conservative) on Wednesday, 7 November 2001, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 12 November 2001. It was answered by Nicholas Brown (Labour) on Monday, 12 November 2001 on behalf of the Department for Work and Pensions.

Dept for Work and Pensions

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, what consultation with Benefits Agency staff was undertaken before the decision to remove glass security screens from new Jobcentre Plus offices; and what were the results of such consultation.

Answer: Mr. Clappison: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what consultation with Benefits Agency staff was undertaken before the decision to remove glass security screens from new Jobcentre Plus offices; and what were the results of such consultation. [14224] Mr. Nicholas Brown: Jobcentre Plus management have been involved in lengthy discussions nationally with the Public and Commercial Services (PCS) union regarding the layout and furnishings of the new Jobcentre Plus offices including in respect of the Risk Assessment process. Local PCS representatives have also been consulted about the safety arrangements in each of the new Jobcentre Plus Offices, including in respect of local Risk Assessments. There have also been frequent and regular communications direct with staff in both the Benefits Agency and the Employment Service.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 374 c577W; 14224
Session: 2001-02
Subjects: Jobcentre Plus Staff Offices Working conditions Security Safety Trade unions Risk assessment
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk