To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what the basis is for the assertion by HM Revenue and Customs that it will be able to meet its obligation to provide a full Welsh language service for its clients in North West Wales after the closure of its Bangor office. (242532)

HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) remains committed to providing services to its Welsh-speaking customers, in accordance with its Welsh language scheme.

The final decisions on its future office structure which HMRC published on 4 December included relocating most of the back office operations currently carried out from its office at Bangor to Colwyn Bay. The enquiry centre services currently offered in Bangor will continue to be provided either in the same building or nearby, so there will be minimal impact on customers requiring a face-to-face service. By using an appointment system, HMRC will continue to ensure that provision for Welsh speakers is made in advance of meetings.

Other business units that will be relocating from Bangor are aware of the importance of the Welsh language service and have arrangements in place to ensure continuation of this provision across North Wales.