WASPI women forced into drastic measures after Labour reject DWP compensation

WASPI women have taken drastic action in the wake of the new Labour Party government REJECTING their bid for £2,950 compensation payouts from the Department for Work and Pensions ( DWP ). Women are cutting back on food and socialising this Christmas and are worried about their finances, according to reports.

Data shows 70 per cent of women impacted have been affected by the scrapping of Winter Fuel Payments, worth £200 or £300 each. Angela Madden, who chairs the WASPI campaign, said: “Despite supportive pledges from the Prime Minister and 16 members of the cabinet, Labour has made a crass, political choice to ignore the findings of the independent parliamentary ombudsman.

"This heartbreaking study shows the impossible choices WASPI women have been forced to make this Christmas. Far from a time of celebration, this will be a month of misery for many.” Labour MP Rachael Maskell said the Government should “urgently” rethink its position.

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She said: “The ombudsman’s report was clear that there had been maladministration of the changes and that compensation was due, from £1,000 to £2,950. Not to honour this not only undermines the thousands of WASPI women who have campaigned so hard for justice but also undermines the PHSO, as the ombudsman, which is the institution to uphold justice and protect the public.

“Government must urgently rethink its position, not least as women are already significantly disadvantaged in the pensions they receive.” Secretary of State for Work and Pensions Liz Kendall said she rejected the recommendation because it would not be "fair or value for taxpayers' money".

However, multiple cabinet members — including Prime Minister Keir Starmer — previously expressed support for compensation for WASPI women before being elected in July. "I do understand the concern, of course I do," said Starmer at Prime Minister's Questions on Wednesday when challenged by Labour MP Diane Abbott on the decision.

"I set out the history. But the research is clear that 90 per cent of those impacted did know about the change. In those circumstances, the taxpayer simply can't afford the burden of tens of billions of pounds of compensation."