THE public sector strikes caused minimal disruption across Merseyside, it was claimed last night.

Liverpool John Lennon Airport said there were no delays, despite fears that a walk out by immigration staff might cause problems.

All local Jobcentre offices were open – although 18 out of 750 elsewhere across the country closed for the day.

A Department for Work and Pensions spokesman said: “65% of staff were at work as normal.

“We prioritised our resources to make payments to people as normal – 98% of DWP claimants receive automated payments.

“People who needed urgent support could call our benefit enquiry line for help. Job search services and benefit advice could be accessed online as usual."

A small number of driving test candidates at Norris Green and Simonswood were affected, but all four Liverpool centres, including Widnes and Garston, were open as usual.

A spokesman for the Driving Standards Agency said: “All were operating driving tests.

“The strikes had a minimal impact on candidates taking their test in Liverpool.”

Workers did go on strike at the Liverpool Passport Office in Old Hall Street, near the city centre.

Rob Parkinson, branch secretary of IPS and PCS North West, said: “We had a presence outside the office from before it opened at 7.30am yesterday until after 6pm.

“A couple of our representatives and members also attended the rally and march held in Liverpool city centre.”