Government Betrays WASPI Women by Refusing Compensation

James MacCleary MP has said the Government has betrayed 1950s-born women affected by changes to the state pension age by refusing to implement the Ombudsman's recommendation for compensation. This devastating announcement was made today by Liz Kendall, Labour's Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, despite calls for justice from campaigners and MPs.

James has been a long-time supporter of the WASPI (Women Against State Pension Inequality) campaign and had written directly to the minister urging the Government to adopt the Ombudsman's recommendations. The Ombudsman's report had highlighted the financial hardship caused by poor communication of pension age changes and called for fair compensation.

James has worked closely with local WASPI groups, including participating in events with campaigners, such as a meeting on Seaford Beach with Liberal Democrat leader Ed Davey.

James said: This decision is an insult to the women who have faced years of financial insecurity because of successive governments' failures. The Ombudsman's report was clear: these women deserve fair and flat-rate compensation. I have supported our local WASPI campaigners every step of the way and I promise to keep up the campaign in Parliament to hold this Government to account and push for the justice these women deserve.

"The Liberal Democrats have stood with WASPI women from the very start, and we will not let this fight go. It is time for the Government to do the right thing and deliver compensation to the women who were so badly let down."

Christine Brett, Seaford South District Councillor and WASPI campaigner, said: "I'm angry and sad at this announcement. It feels like a complete betrayal of the women who have suffered for years because of government mishandling. This decision disregards the pain and hardship these women have endured, and we will not stop fighting for the justice they deserve."

Lewes Area WASPI Co-Ordinator Janet Blackman said: “We are extremely disappointed and angry that the Govt has decided that WASPI women are not entitled to compensation. We will be examining the Minister's statement carefully before we decide on our next steps.”