The Solent WASPI campaign has accused ministers of showing “utter contempt” towards women born in the 1950s after the Government again ruled out paying compensation over changes to the state pension age.
The decision follows a reconsideration of the case after a new document came to light, but ministers have maintained their position that no compensation should be awarded.
Not properly informed about the changes
Women Against State Pension Inequality (WASPI) represents women born in the 1950s who were affected by increases to the state pension age. Campaigners argue they were not properly informed about the changes, leaving many financially unprepared.
This affects more than 10,000 women on the Isle of Wight.
The group has long called for compensation and formal recognition of what it describes as a serious injustice affecting millions of women across the UK.
Simmons: Ministers have demonstrated their utter contempt
Shelagh Simmons, Coordinator of the Solent and Isle of Wight Women Against State Pension Inequality (WASPI) Supporters’ Group, said,
“Ministers have demonstrated their utter contempt for 1950s-born women, for Parliament and for the Parliamentary Ombudsman.
“The Government has kicked the can down the road for months, only to arrive at exactly the same conclusion it has always wanted to.
“This is a disgraceful political choice by a small group of very powerful people who have decided the harm and injustice suffered by millions of ordinary women – including those in Portsmouth – simply does not matter.
“The Parliamentary Ombudsman says economic circumstances should not be used as an excuse to deny compensation.
“The Government has magically found billions to fund policies not made in their election manifesto, proving money can quickly become available when ministers consider something a priority.
“WASPI is taking legal advice, and all options remain on the table.
“We stand ready to pursue every avenue in Parliament and in the courts to secure the justice that has been so shamefully denied.”
This article is from the BBC’s LDRS (Local Democracy Reporter Service) scheme, which OnTheWight is part of. Read here to find about more about how that scheme works on the Island. Some alterations and additions may have been made by OnTheWight. Ed
