JOBCENTRE PLUS ROLL-OUT PROGRAMME IN SCOTLAND

That this House notes with concern the proposed closures of many jobcentres and social security offices throughout Scotland as part of the roll-out programme of the new Jobcentre Plus network; notes the excellent work done by the Government to reduce unemployment to its current record low level by departmental staff in their current locations; and, whilst it supports the principle of integrated Jobcentre Plus offices, believes that the extent of proposed closures far exceeds the principle that an improved service will continue to be delivered locally in towns throughout Scotland.