HM REVENUE AND CUSTOMS REORGANISATION

Early day motion 683, tabled 19 January 2007 by Paul Holmes (Liberal Democrat). Signed by 20 members.

That this House notes with concern the proposals launched for consultation on Wednesday 17th January to reshape HM Revenue and Customs offices nationwide involving the closure of many offices; considers that the current distribution of HM Revenue and Customs offices provides a high quality accessible service to the public; believes that the closure of branches will necessitate increased journey distances with associated higher costs to the public and the environment; acknowledges the excellent service provided by the two HM Revenue and Customs branches in Chesterfield to the people of Chesterfield and Derbyshire; believes that the closure of these branches and the proposed relocation to Sheffield would require residents of Chesterfield to undertake the difficult journey into the already congested and near gridlocked Sheffield road network, leading to increased costs, decreased accessibility, and a worse service due to reduced staffing levels; and calls upon the Government to reconsider its proposals.

Signatures by party: Liberal Democrat 9, Labour 7, DUP 3, Conservative 1.