WASPI advocates expressed satisfaction following Andy Burnham’s commitment to support them, taking a dig at Keir Starmer. The Greater Manchester Mayor hinted at the possibility of authorizing compensations if he assumes the role of Prime Minister, criticizing 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 endorses, condemning the Prime Minister and senior Labour figures.
The Prime Minister faced criticism for rejecting payouts to over 3.5 million women impacted by the pension age controversy, dismissing calls for compensations ranging from £1,000 to £2,950 due to administrative issues, which could lead to a potential £10 billion expenditure.
Burnham emphasized his ongoing backing for the campaign, highlighting the need for justice for the affected women, similar to his support for other causes like the Hillsborough families. The government’s stance on denying compensations to those affected by pension-related errors at the Department for Work and Pensions has sparked further debate on the issue.
Angela Madden, chair of the Women Against State Pension Inequality (WASPI), commended Burnham for his consistent support, emphasizing the necessity for compensation as recommended by the Parliamentary Ombudsman. The failure to inform affected women about the rise in the state pension age resulted in financial hardships for many, with some falling into poverty due to lack of awareness.
While in opposition, Labour leaders including Starmer endorsed the campaign, but the party has repeatedly declined to approve compensation payments. The Prime Minister defended the government’s stance, stating that a majority of affected women were aware of the pension age changes, making it financially unsustainable to allocate billions in compensations.
Burnham is anticipated to challenge Starmer if successful in the upcoming Makerfield by-election, confirming his willingness to engage in a leadership contest. WASPI campaigners recently announced a new legal challenge against the government’s refusal to implement a compensation scheme, highlighting the political implications of disregarding the issue and its impact on voter sentiment.