Keir Starmer is facing a new challenge as Labour Members of Parliament are adding their voices to the growing demand for a reversal of the decision regarding WASPI payouts.
In a joint effort, fifteen backbenchers, along with 100 MPs from various parties including the Liberal Democrats, Tories, Reform, SNP, independents, and DUP, are urging a rethink on the denial of compensation to millions of women born in the 1950s. They argue that the government must reconsider its stance in light of new evidence that emerged last year.
The pressure on the government to change course and provide compensation ranging from £1,000 to £2,950 to 3.6 million women continues to mount. The WASPI group had planned legal action for December but has postponed it pending the outcome of the ongoing review.
The failure of the Department for Work and Pensions to effectively communicate the increase in the state pension age for women from 60 to 65 and then to 66 has had severe consequences, pushing many women into financial hardship.
Angela Madden, chair of the WASPI campaign, emphasized the urgent need for ministers to act swiftly in compensating affected women. The public support for the cause is evident, with widespread backing from people sending letters to MPs every 30 seconds.
Labour ministers are now at a critical juncture to show their commitment to addressing the concerns raised by their colleagues and the broader parliamentary community.