A GOVERNMENT agency which provides legal advice to millions is to cut 600 jobs and close some offices, including in Chester, staff have been told.

The GMB union said it was told the Legal Services Commission planned to cut its workforce from 1,700 to 1,100 over the next three years.

The commission provides information, advice and legal representation to two million people a year in England and Wales, helping with civil legal problems such as family breakdown, death and housing.

The GMB's Rehana Azam said: "We will fight a vigorous campaign to minimise losses.

"It is essential to ensure legal aid services are maintained - and it is important there are no cutbacks for people facing debts and housing problems."