A significant development has sparked renewed debate over compensation for WASPI (Women Against State Pension Inequality) women seeking £2,950 payouts from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). Independent MP Brian Leishman, suspended from the Labour Party in July 2025, has voiced strong criticism, emphasizing widespread public frustration about the perceived injustice.
Leishman stated, “What I hear from people on the doorstep and when I am out campaigning is anger at issues like the two-child benefit cap, Winter Fuel Payments, the treatment of the WASPI women, and wider welfare cuts."
He added, “When will the leadership recognise that these issues impact our own communities—our class? Instead of chasing disillusioned Tory right-wing voters, they should focus on defending their core supporters.”
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The controversy stems from a 2025 recommendation by the Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman that women born in the 1950s, whose state pension age was gradually increased to align with men’s, should receive compensation. The Ombudsman found that these women had not been adequately informed about the changes.
Despite this, the government declared in December that no compensation would be awarded.
A DWP spokesperson responded to ongoing judicial reviews by stating: “We do not comment on live litigation. We accept the Ombudsman’s finding of maladministration and have apologised for the 28-month delay in notifying 1950s-born women. However, we disagree with the Ombudsman’s conclusions on injustice and the proposed remedies, which is why compensation will not be paid.”
Further explanation from a government representative noted, “While we admit maladministration and apologise for delayed communications, evidence shows only 25% of the affected women do not recall receiving notices. By 2006, 90% of women born in the 1950s were aware of the pension age change. Therefore, earlier letters would have had limited impact. The government cannot justify a £10.5bn compensation scheme at taxpayers’ expense.”
The WASPI campaign continues to push for recognition and redress, highlighting the complex balance between government accountability and fiscal responsibility.