Campaigners from the Women Against State Pension Inequality (WASPI) movement are preparing for a legal showdown as they gather at the Royal Courts of Justice in London this Monday. Their fight aims to force the UK government to offer compensation to women affected by changes to the state pension age.
Why Is WASPI Taking Legal Action?
WASPI is seeking a judicial review to challenge the government’s refusal to compensate 1950s-born women who were impacted by changes to the state pension age.
The Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman (PHSO) had previously suggested that affected women should receive compensation ranging from £1,000 to £2,950 each. However, in December 2024, the government rejected large-scale compensation, arguing that the estimated £10.5 billion cost was unaffordable for taxpayers.
Public Support and Legal Proceedings
The WASPI campaign has raised over £150,000 to fund its legal battle. The group’s legal team at Bindmans LLP has already sent a “letter before action” to the government, initiating the judicial review process.
WASPI chair Angela Madden criticized the government’s refusal to engage, stating:
“We do not want to be taking legal action, but we have been forced to, due to the Government’s total denial of justice.”
She further urged the government to negotiate, warning that otherwise, they would have to defend their stance in court.
Government’s Response
A government spokesperson acknowledged the 28-month delay in notifying affected women, admitting to maladministration but rejecting compensation claims.
The government insists that:
- By 2006, 90% of 1950s-born women knew about the state pension age change.
- Only 1 in 4 people recall receiving a pension notice letter.
- The £10.5 billion cost of compensation is unjustifiable for taxpayers.
What Happens Next?
WASPI campaigners are expecting an early court hearing, where judges will determine if the government’s decision was legally sound. If the judicial review succeeds, it could force the government to reconsider compensation options.
For now, the fight for pension justice continues in the courts.
FAQ’s
1. Who are the WASPI campaigners?
WASPI (Women Against State Pension Inequality) is a campaign group fighting for compensation for women born in the 1950s who were affected by state pension age changes.
2. What is the issue with the state pension age change?
Many women claim they were not adequately informed about the state pension age increase, leading to financial hardship when they had to wait longer for their pensions.
3. Why is WASPI suing the government?
The government has refused to offer widespread compensation despite acknowledging delays in informing women about the changes. WASPI is challenging this decision in court.
4. How much compensation has been suggested?
The Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman (PHSO) recommended £1,000 to £2,950 per woman, but the government has dismissed these recommendations.
