Norwich/Ipswich: DVLA Staff Strike Over Closures

28 December 2012, 06:36 | Updated: 28 December 2012, 06:54

Staff at the DVLA offices in Norwich and Ipswich are walking out today in row over the planned closure of offices.

The PCS union says dozens of sites face closing, risking more than 1,000 jobs. Ipswich and Norwich offices have both been named as at risk of being closed down.

The union is campaigning against planned office closures across the country, arguing it signals the end of a "highly prized'' face-to-face service to motorists.

The union has delivered a 72,000 name petition opposing the closures, to the Department for Transport.

A union spokesman said: "Our petition was signed by members of the public, motor traders, representatives of motor trade federations and haulage and bus companies, and representatives of historic vehicle clubs.

"We're very concerned about the lack of awareness among people that the offices are set to close or even that a consultation has been carried out.''

PCS general secretary Mark Serwotka said: "As well as losing a high quality public service and more than 1,000 jobs at a time of high unemployment, we believe these closures will lead to increased vehicle tax evasion and fraud.

"We want the minister to listen to the overwhelming views of the public, motor traders and his staff, and to see sense and reverse these ill-thought through and damaging closures.''

DVLA said it could not guarantee a business-as-usual service because of the strike and asked people to avoid travelling to any DVLA office today.

Contact centres will be operating a reduced service and callers were warned to expect longer waiting times.

The organisation suggested conducting transactions by other means such as electronically or via the Post Office.