Move to stop axe by HMRC

Meetings are being held in Bathgate for anyone who want to find out how they can support a campaign to stop the closure of HMRC offices in Bathgate and Livingston.

Organisers of the meetings say they need the public’s help to block the moves, which they say could cost West Lothian £8.5 million.

The meetings will take at the Pyramids Business Park on Wednesday and Thursday, February 8 and 9, at 5-7pm.

Campaign co-ordinator Gary Stein explained:“Some 1200 jobs at the Pyramids Business Park in Bathgate and Barbara Ritchie House in Livingston are due to be relocated to a new HMRC regional hub in Edinburgh. These plans could cost West Lothian £8.5 million and affect local shops, business and services. Local workers generate around £7.5 million of West Lothian’s local income annually and spend £1 million in local shops and restaurants. They also support demand for local transport services. A high number of staff will be unable to relocate or source alternative work.

“PCS Union (staff representative), West Lothian Council, the local MP and a group of MSPs are campaigning against the closures. We believe retaining jobs in West Lothian is a viable option that would actually save the tax payer money.

“The Pyramids Business Park in Bathgate is easily accessible and has the modern facilities and office space to accommodate HMRC’s future business requirements.” Email garystein953@gmail.com.