THE government's Department of Work and Pensions has admitted that the JobCentre Plus in Monmouth is under threat from closure because it would be easier to manage everything under one roof in Abergavenny. A spokesman at the Department of Work and Pensions said: "There are job centres closing throughout the country in an ongoing process running from 2002 to 2010.

"We are trying to get customers to go to one place to collect benefits and for job points or advice. We also want to promote the use of the phone when this could be quicker than a trip to the centre.

"It is easier for us to have everything under one roof."

But local MP/AM David Davies angrily responded: "It may be easier for the Department of Work and Pensions but it's certainly not easier for those actively looking for work."

As part of a consultation period, ending tomorrow, JobCentre users have received letters outlining the changes and have been asked their views. Margaret Hodge, the work and pensions minister, will only then make a final decision on the Monmouth branch.

But Mr Davies remained sceptical. He said: "I'm sick of hearing about consultations.

"Every time we have one the idea is to listen to the people, but nine times out of ten when the public says they don't agree the unpopular action is carried out anyway. I hope I'm proved wrong."

The Department of Work and Pensions spokesman added that in the event of closure, a job point or freephone could be installed in libraries or council buildings depending on demand. But Mr Davies said even this was "not satisfactory" and called on the government to examine its priorities.

It was added that Chepstow's JobCentre is not currently under review - but it still could be axed over the next four years.