Blackpool MP raises Waspi women question in Parliament

Saturday, 12 October 2024 09:56

By Shelagh Parkinson - LDRS

Blackpool South MP Chris Webb has called for urgent action to address the demands of the Waspi women campaign after raising the issue in Parliament.

Mr Webb quizzed Secretary of State for the DWP (Department for Work and Pensions) Liz Kendal, saying it was time justice was given to women born in the 1950s who have missed out on pension payments after their retirement age was changed.

The retirement age for both men and women was increased to 66 having previously been 60 for women and 65 for men, and is due to increase further to 67. The Waspi campaign says women born in the 1950s were not given adequate notice about the changes and so could not make financial arrangements in time.

Addressing Parliament, Mr Webb said: “I first joined the Waspi women in their campaign activity in 2017. Seven years later they are still fighting for justice.

“Can the minister ensure women in my constituency and across the country that she will act urgently, unlike the previous government and bring this injustice to an end?”

A Parliamentary and Health Ombudsman report published earlier this year says the government had failed to adequately inform women born in the 1950s about the impact of changes.

Ms Kendal said she had also met Waspi campaigners, and added: “It really is a serious report that requires serious consideration. We will do everything possible to get this issue resolved as soon as possible.”

The Waspi campaign does not oppose the state pension age becoming the same for women and men, but is calling for compensation for those affected who they say did not get adequate warning about the changes.

Have you got a local news story?
Email us: news@central.radio

More from Blackpool, Wyre & Fylde News

Get set for a sparkling end to 2024 in Blackpool

Blackpool is preparing to bring the curtain down on 2024 with a spectacular New Year’s Eve party on the Prom.
Work begins on new units at enterprise zone

Work has started to build 11 new business units at Blackpool Airport Enterprise Zone with four already sold.
Councillor: ‘Some of my constituents are really scared about the contamination at Thornton’

A Wyre councillor says she has advised worried constituents to attend new drop-in sessions offering updates on a probe into historic chemical contamination in Thornton.
Blackpool receives £1.8m grant to plant trees

Blackpool has received a grant for £1.8m towards planting new trees across the borough as part of a strategy to green up the town.
Blackpool received £2.3m in government funding to fix potholes

Blackpool is set to receive £2.3m of government funding to fix potholes across the town.
Blackpool Council leader welcomes funding increase

A £17m increase in Blackpool Council’s spending power next year has been welcomed by the council leader – but she warned it remains ‘impossible’ to turn the clock back on previous cuts.
Ian Shepherd joins Central Radio North West: A thrilling new chapter for local radio in Lancashire

Central Radio North West is delighted to announce that seasoned broadcaster Ian Shepherd will be joining our team as a presenter, bringing his unparalleled passion, flair, and connection to the community back to the airwaves.
Blackpool to receive nearly £3m to tackle homelessness

Blackpool is to receive nearly £3m to tackle homelessness in the resort as latest figures show a rise in the number of people without a proper home.