I am proud to have been a longstanding supporter of the WASPI - Women Against State Pension Inequality Campaign, taking their concerns to the Government and ensuring that our colleagues have been fully aware of the facts behind the issue.
Changes that came in a number of years ago have had a severe impact on some women born in the 1950s as their pensionable ages rose from 60 to 66. It is estimated that up to one million women will be affected by these changes with many living here in Worthing West.
There has been a growing agreement in Parliament that more needs to be done. The ombudsman in March recommended that the women receive an apology and pay-outs of between £1,000 and £2,950. Colleagues and campaigners welcomed this news.
The ombudsman’s report has been clear that the Government should recognise the impact on ‘WASPI’ women. I back calls for this to be done quickly.
There is a clear consensus in Parliament in favour of compensation. The Government would be right to act.
I have backed calls with an open letter to the Secretary of State for Work and Pension, urging the government to settle the compensation of "WASPI" before the summer recess.
As I have made clear on multiple occasions, I would welcome a debate where the feeling of the House can be made clear to the Government.
A vote will give a definitive assurance to the Secretary of State that these women deserve justice.
