More than 100 MPs, including 52 from Labour, have called on ministers to reconsider their decision not to compensate women affected by increases to the state pension age.
The call comes ahead of a High Court hearing scheduled for 9 and 10 December, where government lawyers will defend the Department for Work and Pensions’ (DWP) decision to reject compensation for 3.5 million women born in the 1950s.
In late 2024, the Parliamentary Ombudsman found that the DWP had failed to adequately inform women of changes to their state pension age and recommended that compensation be paid.
Campaigners say this is a final opportunity for ministers to revisit the issue before the case is heard in court. They also criticised the government for not meeting with representatives of the Women Against State Pension Inequality (Waspi) campaign for over a year, despite repeated requests.
Waspi chair Angela Madden says: “We know many Labour MPs are still absolutely furious with the Government’s failure to compensate WASPI women. It is having a real impact on the doorstep, given those affected are a cohort that turns out and votes, with significant levels of support being lost both to left-wing parties and Reform.
“Waspi stands ready for constructive dialogue with ministers – the ball is now in the DWP’s court.
“It really is the last chance saloon for the Government, before they risk being forced to defend the indefensible in court within a matter of weeks.”
Labour MP for Salford and co-Chair of the state pension inequality for women APP Rebecca Long-Bailey says: “An injustice is an injustice. It must be put right. The 1950s women will never give up so neither will I!”
Labour MP for South Norfolk Ben Goldsborough says: “Waspi women deserve justice. No more delays. No more reviews. We need action now.”
Labour MP for Sheffield Hallam Olivia Blake MP says: “The Waspi campaign has been determined to right the wrong that impacts so many women. They deserve justice and compensation.”
Labour MP for Middlesbrough and Thornaby East Andy McDonald says: “It is vitally important that government maintains a dialogue with campaigners. The ombudsman came to a judgement and it is a grave injustice that has not been honoured.”