Copyright glasgowlive
A MP supporter of the WASPI campaign (Women Against State Pension Inequality), has called for all MPs to debate and vote on the issue in Parliament. Liberal Democrat Wendy Chamberlain, who represents North East Fife, has penned a letter to Work and Pensions Secretary, Pat McFadden. She pressed the Government to set up a "fair and transparent" compensation scheme for the generation of women born in the 1950s represented by WASPI and other groups. The Liberal Democrats have consistently backed compensation for these women, alongside other political parties such as the Green Party and the SNP. Despite the DWP announcing last year that there would be no payouts, WASPI has lodged an application for a judicial review of this decision, set to take place in December. In her letter, Ms Chamberlain urged the Government to initiate "discussions with WASPI representatives to agree an out-of-court resolution". She also advocated for a "fair and transparent compensation scheme in line with the PHSO's recommendation in the Budget". Furthermore, she insisted that MPs should have a say on the matter, urging Labour to "allow Parliament the opportunity to debate and vote on the issue so that all MPs can represent the voices of their constituents". What is the WASPI campaign about? The WASPI movement represents women born in the 1950s who were hit by a rise in their state pension age from 60 to 65. They argue that the DWP failed to adequately inform them of this change, leaving many unaware they would have to wait several more years for their state pension, throwing their retirement plans into disarray. A report by the Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman suggested compensation amounts ranging from £1,000 to £2,950, after finding that the DWP had made significant errors, including not sending out letters soon enough. The Ombudsman also urged Parliament to address the issue and find a solution. However, last year the Government declared there would be no compensation. Ministers maintained that most of the women were aware of the change and that earlier letters would have made little difference. WASPI is now pinning its hopes on this decision being overturned at a judicial review in the high court, scheduled for December 9 and 10. A DWP spokesperson said previously about the judicial review: "We do not comment on live litigation. We accept the Ombudsman’s finding of maladministration and have apologised for there being a 28-month delay in writing to 1950s-born women. "However, we do not agree with the Ombudsman’s approach to injustice or remedy and that is why we have decided not to pay compensation." Chancellor Rachel Reeves will present her Autumn Budget before Parliament on November 26.
