I have previously supported efforts to find some form of recompense for WASPI women, though admittedly I had not come to any firm conclusion as to what this would look like and I do accept there are significant costs some of which would be given to women that themselves would say they knew about their changed pension age. A bespoke scheme would also be challenging to implement. But I agree that the Ombudsman was clear there has been maladministration and there should be a serious attempt to address that at least in some way.
On 2nd December 2025, the WASPI campaign withdrew its legal challenge against the government, for out-of-court settlements. The Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, Rt Hon Pat McFadden, is conducting a full review with all evidence and a decision will be reached by late February 2026. While further delay is frustrating, it is important that the Dept. for Work and Pensions review all evidence afresh.
What I am deeply deeply shocked by is the sheer hypocrisy of this Labour government including the Prime Minister, Deputy Prime Minister and Work and Pensions Secretary. They all knew the challenges as I have described them. Where I have always been careful not to over promise to campaigns I have supported, they promised unconditional support to the WASPI campaign over many years. Clearly they voiced their support only to win votes and had no intention of keeping the pledges they made to WASPI women.
Kieran