WASPI Condemns Government’s Rejection of Ombudsman’s Recommendations
The Women Against State Pension Inequality (WASPI) campaign has expressed outrage at the Government’s decision to dismiss recommendations from the Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman (PHSO), which called for immediate compensation for women affected by state pension age changes. The move has sparked widespread anger and disbelief among campaigners and MPs alike.
Angela Madden, Chair of WASPI, criticised the Government’s stance, calling it “an unprecedented political decision” and accusing ministers of undermining the authority of the independent watchdog. She stated, “This is an utterly bizarre and unjustified move that will leave many wondering what the point of an ombudsman is if ministers can simply ignore their rulings. It’s a decision that would even make figures like Boris Johnson and Donald Trump blush.”
The PHSO’s report, issued nine months ago, concluded that maladministration by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) had failed to adequately communicate changes to the state pension age to millions of women born in the 1950s. These changes left many with little time to adjust their retirement plans, causing significant financial and emotional distress. The Ombudsman’s report recommended that the Government take swift action to compensate the affected women, but this advice has now been disregarded.
WASPI has vowed to continue its fight for justice, stressing that the campaign is far from over. Madden emphasised the overwhelming support within Parliament for fair compensation, suggesting that other routes may need to be explored to ensure justice is served. “If the Government cannot address the issue, Parliament must find another way to bring it forward,” she said.
The campaign group has been inundated with media and press enquiries since the Government’s announcement and is currently seeking high-level legal advice to explore its options. “We will take the time needed to carefully consider our next steps,” WASPI confirmed in a statement.
In the meantime, WASPI has pledged to keep its supporters updated through regular posts on its website, sharing relevant press articles and media interviews. The group’s determination remains steadfast, and their campaign to hold the Government accountable continues with renewed vigour.
The rejection of the PHSO’s recommendations has not only angered campaigners but also raised questions about the role and influence of independent oversight bodies in the UK. With a significant number of MPs backing WASPI’s call for fair compensation, the issue is unlikely to fade from the political agenda any time soon.
For the millions of women affected, this latest development represents another hurdle in their long struggle for justice. But with WASPI’s unwavering commitment and growing public support, the fight continues.