KENT NEWS: MP for Tunbridge Wells, Greg Clark has met with the minister who must take the final decision on whether hundreds of Land Registry workers will lose their jobs.
The Land Registry proposes to close five of its sites including the one in Forest Road, which would leave 200 workers unemployed, if it goes ahead in September 2011.
Mr Clark met with Michael Wills, the minister for the Land Registry, last Wednesday, to discuss the proposals and their impact on the town.
He said: "The Land Registry is one of Tunbridge Wells’ largest employers so the news that it could be closing is of great concern to many people.
"Having been in Tunbridge Wells since 1955, it is also an important part of our history. It’s crucial, therefore, that any decisions about its future are based on sound economic arguments.
"I asked to meet the minister who will be taking the final decision about the Tunbridge Wells office as I wanted to ensure that this was indeed the case. It’s important that we don’t lose out and then find if the housing market recovers, they are taking on more people and it’s too late for Tunbridge Wells.
"I also wanted to raise concerns about the employees – to ensure that they are treated fairly and supported as much as possible in this difficult and uncertain time."
Before the meeting Mr Clark spoke of the proposals in a Parliamentary debate.
The Land Registry is also planning to close its offices in Peterborough, Stevenage, Croydon and Portsmouth.
Mr Wills is set to make a final decision imminently after a public consultation ended.
POSTED: 08/03/2010 10:30:00
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