
North Devon MP, Nick Harvey, has welcomed news that the future of Barnstaple's tax office is secured until at least 2015.
Proposals to close 15 offices around the country were announced by HM Revenue and Customs this week, but the office in Barnstaple is to remain open until at least 2015.
Nick Harvey lobbied for the office to remain open after meeting with local union representatives concerned at the proposals, and urged the department tasked with the administration and collection of taxes to ensure that local jobs were protected.
"Not only does this office allow the public to discuss any problems that they might face with their tax affairs, it also provides employment to many local people and is a key part of the local economy" said Mr Harvey on learning the news.
"It is possible that the office will see some changes in operation with staff potentially moving within the building, but all have had their job guaranteed for the time being and this is excellent news for North Devon."
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