Government decision to deny compensation to WASPI women condemned

Oldham Liberal Democrat councillors have strongly condemned the Government’s decision not to pay compensation to women affected by changes to the state pension age, despite promising compensation when out of power.  Oldham Liberal Democrat Leader councillor Howard Sykes MBE describe the news as a “betrayal” of thousands of women in Oldham and across the country.

Women born in the 1950s were left facing unexpected financial hardship after the state pension age was increased without adequate notice.  Despite findings by the Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman that maladministration had taken place, ministers have now ruled out any compensation.

Liberal Democrat Group Leader Councillor Howard Sykes MBE said, “Millions of WASPI women will feel utterly betrayed by this decision, including many here in Oldham.  These women worked hard, paid into the system all their lives, and then had the goalposts moved without proper warning.

“The Government has turned its back on pension-age women who were wronged through no fault of their own, choosing to ignore the findings of the independent Ombudsman.  That is frankly disgraceful."

Many affected women were forced to delay retirement, use up savings, or rely on insecure work and benefits because of the changes, with long-term consequences for their financial security.

Councillor Sykes added, “This is a heartless decision that cannot be allowed to stand. Women in Oldham have waited far too long for fairness and justice, and they deserve far better than this from their government.

“Liberal Democrats will continue to stand with WASPI women locally and nationally, pressing ministers to reverse this decision and deliver the fair treatment and compensation these women deserve.”