Grangemouth MP continues to fight corner of WASPI women
Time is of the essence in offering a fair resolution for WASPI women, according to a Grangemouth MP who continues to fight their corner in Westminster.
Brian Leishman MP spoke in parliament this week, asking ministers what steps have been taken to support discussions for a potential route to redress for women unfairly affected by changes to their State Pension age.
Speaking in the House of Commons, the Labour MP said: “There are over three and a half million WASPI women affected by the change to the State Pension age.
“Now, time is really of the essence because another WASPI woman dies an average every 13 minutes without receiving fairness or justice.
“The Prime Minister personally assured the WASPI campaign during the Makerfield by-election that he would meet with them to discuss potential routes to redress.”
In Department of Work and Pensions (DWP) questions, the Alloa and Grangemouth MP asked ministers what steps the department has taken to support PM Andy Burnham in discussions and pressed them on when the meeting will take place.
In 2024, the Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman concluded that the DWP failed to provide adequate notice about changes to women’s State Pension age, which amounted to maladministration.
While the DWP has apologised for mistakes made, it has so far refused to set up a compensation scheme, prompting the WASPI campaign to seek another judicial review.
Speaking after DWP questions, Mr Leishman added: “I have campaigned with WASPI women before being elected and they continue to have my support.
“These women deserve to be compensated fairly, and I will continue to campaign inside and outside Westminster to achieve that.”