Millions of women eagerly awaiting news on possible £3,000 compensation could soon have their update, as the Government has provided a fresh response in the aftermath of a penetrating appeal from a cross-party group of MPs. Earlier this month, they wrote to ministers, pushing for an « update Parliament on your progress in responding to the PHSO’s report » before the Christmas Parliamentary recess, marked for this Thursday (December 19).
During questions at the Department for Work and Pensions, the delay was spotlighted, with inquiries about when a resolution would be revealed. The surge of public support is palpable, with a petition imploring the Government to « fairly compensate » impacted women amassing over 135,000 signatures.
This afternoon, Seamus Logan MP (SNP) pressed further: « On December 4 my colleague the honourable member for Moray West asked the Prime Minister about WASPI women and was told the government was working at pace. Since then 14 or 1500 more women have died without justice of compensation. Can the minister tell us what ‘working at pace’ means and give us a timeline. »
Emma Reynolds, the Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, responded, acknowledging the gravity of the situation: « I thank him for that question. I was the first minister for eight years to meet with the WASPI campaigners to listen to their concerns. The ombudsman took six years to investigate six cases. »
She added, « We are working at pace on this issue. We hope to come to the house soon to update him and the public on what we’re going to do next. »
In a response on December 9 to the petition, the DWP stated it is still « reviewing » the Ombudsman’s report and will « outline its approach » once the review is complete. Supporters of the campaign, including MPs, have called for compensation payouts of £10,000 or more, in line with the PHSO’s top tier for redress.
The Government has also indicated that it is « listening respectfully » to the women affected, with pensions minister Emma Reynolds having recently met with WASPI campaigners. However, WASPI campaign chair Angela Madden disagrees, asserting: « Respect is not shown just by ‘listening’ to WASPI women as ministers have indicated. »
« It is shown by acting swiftly on the Parliamentary Ombudsman’s clear instructions to compensate those affected. »
The petition quickly gained momentum, surpassing 100,000 signatures rapidly.
Madden highlighted this as proof of « the overwhelming support across the country for fair compensation ». She pressed the Government: « Only the Government has the power to deliver it. With one WASPI woman dying every 13 minutes, ministers would be wise to bring their compensation proposals to Parliament without any further delay. »
It’s worth noting for those nearing retirement that the state pension age is set to rise again soon.
The current retirement age of 66 for both genders is set to gradually rise from 66 to 67 between 2026 and 2028. A further increase will see the age go up from 67 to 68 between 2044 and 2046
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