HMRC office closure plans must be scrutinised by Parliament

hmrcIt is estimated that more than 2,000 jobs are to go with the closure of HMRC tax offices in Scotland. The decision comes as a direct result of the Treasury’s demands for a swingeing 30% cuts to their budget – to satisfy George Osborne’s austerity agenda.

Following discussions with various stakeholders since the shock announcement which includes the Inverness office, Drew Hendry MP said:

“Obviously my priority yesterday was to speak to staff and union representatives about the situation here in Inverness.  This is a devastating blow and for many the news was completely unexpected. I am deeply concerned at the immediate impact this announcement will be having on workers lives, who are understandably worried about their futures.

“I have seen no evidence of any assessment of the impact on staff with disabilities or caring responsibilities, or the socio-economic and environmental effects of this large-scale closure plan.  It is ludicrous that such a massive change would be made without parliamentary or public consultation. I have, therefore, written to the Minister to demand that these proposals to be subject to full parliamentary scrutiny. I also fully intend to raise this matter next week in parliament where I will be joined by my SNP colleagues in Westminster in calling on the UK Government to put a halt to these irresponsible plans.”