The Scottish National Party (SNP) has challenged the Labour Party to advocate for pensioners and allocate billions to compensate Women Against State Pension Inequality (Waspi) women. The SNP expressed disappointment over the UK Government’s decision not to use public funds to compensate women affected by changes to the state pension system. The issue dates back to 1995 when the pension age for women was set to rise gradually to match that of men, from 60 to 65. Subsequently, the Conservative-Lib Dem coalition government accelerated the changes in 2010 to reduce pension costs.
The SNP has urged for compensation for the 3.6 million women impacted by the 1995 decision, with 2.6 million affected by the 2018 date change. The Waspi campaign group has actively protested and lobbied for fair compensation for these women. Despite the Parliamentary Ombudsman’s criticism of the government’s failure to inform women about the pension age changes, the Work and Pensions Secretary recently confirmed that Waspi women would not be compensated.
In response, SNP MSP Clare Haughey accused the UK Labour Government of betraying the Waspi women and highlighted the SNP’s efforts in Scotland to support older people through initiatives like the winter fuel payment. Scottish Labour’s Paul O’Kane welcomed the commitment to increase the state pension but expressed disappointment over the lack of compensation for affected women. Both parties stressed the importance of supporting pensioners and addressing long-standing injustices.
As we head into 2025, the calls for justice for Waspi women grow louder, with the spotlight on political leaders to fulfil their promises and support those most in need in the pensioner community. The debate underscores the ongoing struggle for equality and fair treatment for women impacted by pension age changes, highlighting the need for government accountability and support for vulnerable groups in society.