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8 April 2011 Vulnerable people are likely to have to pay the price for an expensive relocation of a government agency under which staff will effectively be forced out of their jobs, the Public and Commercial Services union says. Members of the union who work at the Office of the Public Guardian have voted for industrial action over plans to move 177 jobs from London to Birmingham with no offer of support for those currently working in London to assist them with moving with their job. Of the 47% who took part in the ballot, 78% voted to strike and 84% for industrial action short of a strike. The OPG claims it will save money but the move will cost around £22 million and it is likely fees will go up to offset the cost. The union also fears the move is a step towards privatisation. The agency, which manages lasting power of attorney for representatives of those who lack the mental capacity to run their own financial affairs, has announced it wants to move out of the capital but has refused to support staff with the move, meaning the experienced staff could face compulsory redundancy if there are no redeployment opportunities. The union has put forward alternatives to relocation that would keep experienced members in work and maintain a consistent service for the OPG*s clients, including moving the office into another Ministry of Justice building in London. PCS general secretary Mark Serwotka said: *Not only are OPG managers apparently willing to shed experienced staff, they are adding increased risk and costs onto some of the most vulnerable people in society. *Our members have said very clearly they do not want to move and we do not believe that anyone should profit from what is an important public service.* Notes
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