LAST Thursday we found out that the Port Glasgow Jobcentre Plus is to close with 28 jobs to transfer to the Greenock Jobcentre Plus.

Like many people, I am angered by this announcement from the UK Government and it follows on from the recent decision to close eight Jobcentres in Glasgow.

It is to close by the end of March 2018 and apparently, travel expenses can be claimed for those claiming Jobseekers’ Allowance or the equivalent claimants in Universal Credit for any attendance above their fortnightly signing appointment.

I have already written to the UK Government asking for further information expressing my grave concerns and the lack of understanding the UK Government have for our area and why this decision has been taken.

I was in Brussels for two days last week with some European Committee colleagues.

The vast majority of our committee work is understandably on the huge implications of Brexit and how it will affect Scotland and the UK.

There was a huge level of sympathy for and appreciation for Scotland since we voted overwhelmingly by 62 per cent to remain yet are being dragged out by the UK Government. Leaving will be difficult.

Three agreements will be required. First of all, the actual leaving deal, then there will be transition arrangements which could feasibly take up to 10 years. Finally, there will be the long term final deal.

Make no mistake, leaving the EU will not be easy and will have economic implications for us all.