WASPI advocates expressed satisfaction following Andy Burnham’s commitment to support them, taking a jab at Keir Starmer. Hinting at potential payouts if he assumes the role of Prime Minister, the Greater Manchester Mayor criticized the treatment of millions of women born in the 1950s by politicians. Speaking at a hustings event before the Makerfield by-election, Burnham reaffirmed his support for causes he champions, while criticizing the Prime Minister and senior Labour figures.
The government faced criticism for rejecting compensation for over 3.5 million women affected by the pension age issue. This decision came after dismissing a recommendation from an independent watchdog to provide payments ranging from £1,000 to £2,950 to women born in the 1950s due to administrative errors, potentially resulting in a £10 billion cost.
Burnham emphasized his longstanding backing for the campaign, expressing discomfort with politicians who fail to act on promises once in power. Refusing to compensate women affected by failures at the Department for Work and Pensions, the government disregarded the Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman’s call for payments. The Women Against State Pension Inequality (WASPI) group chair, Angela Madden, welcomed Burnham’s continued support, highlighting the need for justice for 1950s-born women.
The failure to inform affected women about the increase in the state pension age from 60 to 65 led to financial hardships for many. While in opposition, senior Labour figures, including Starmer, backed the campaign but have consistently rejected compensation payments. The Prime Minister defended the decision, stating that 90% of impacted women were aware of the changes, citing financial constraints as a reason for not providing compensation.
Burnham is anticipated to challenge Starmer if successful in the Makerfield by-election. The WASPI campaigners recently initiated a legal challenge against the government’s refusal to implement a compensation scheme, accusing ministers of ignoring the Ombudsman’s recommendations and risking alienating voters.