Nigel has this afternoon welcomed the announcement by the Department for Work and Pensions that Clitheroe Jobcentre, which had been under threat of closure, will remain open.
Speaking from the Ribble Valley this afternoon Mr Evans said, “I think that this is an excellent decision and am happy that this important local services will continue to run for the benefit of the area.
It seemed to me to be a ridiculous suggestion that those who rely on Clitheroe Jobcentre from outlying villages in the Ribble Valley were to be expected to travel into Blackburn to access support and services, over 20 miles away.
I spoke on this subject in the House of Commons on Monday to receive assurances from Esther McVey, the Minister of State for Employment, that rural services will not be reduced from the most vulnerable, and I am glad that the Department has listened to these concerns and that the right decision has been made.
Many members of the public had raised their concerns with me over the closure of Clitheroe Jobcentre and participated in the consultation process, which goes to show what a vital service Clitheroe Jobcentre provides already and will continue to provide for the Ribble Valley.”