Ministers are facing a stark 'last chance saloon' warning from the WASPI campaign, as fresh polling reveals overwhelming support from younger voters for compensation to be paid to millions of women affected by state pension age changes.
Young Voters Rally Behind WASPI Cause
A new survey has uncovered significant backing for the Women Against State Pension Inequality campaign among the younger electorate. The poll, conducted by Yonder among 2,095 adults, found that 66% of voters aged between 18 and 34 believe the Government should award payouts to over three million women born in the 1950s.
Furthermore, the data shows that 53% of this age group think Parliament should hold a debate and vote on the compensation issue. A striking 77% believe individuals impacted by government maladministration should be able to obtain redress without needing to pursue lengthy legal action.
Campaigners Issue Final Warning to Government
WASPI chair Angela Madden has issued a forceful message to the Government, stating they are now in the "last chance saloon" to deliver justice. The 71-year-old campaigner emphasised that only a full compensation scheme will suffice, warning of a potential "humiliating tsunami of national outrage" if ministers again ignore the Parliamentary Ombudsman's recommendations.
"These findings prove that younger people understand the importance of justice and fairness across generations," Mrs Madden stated. "They recognise that when the state fails its citizens through maladministration, it must put things right, regardless of age."
Legal Battle and Mounting Pressure
The Government is under intensifying pressure to reverse its stance on refusing compensation, estimated to be between £1,000 and £2,950 for each of the 3.6 million affected women. Campaigners have raised more than £250,000 to fund a legal challenge, with a judicial review application poised for action.
This legal action is currently on hold, pending the outcome of a crucial review expected next month. The core issue stems from failures at the Department for Work and Pensions to properly communicate the decision to increase the state pension age for women from 60 to 65, and later to 66.
This communication breakdown left many of the worst-affected women unable to plan financially, plunging some into poverty. With cross-generational support now clearly demonstrated and a legal fight looming, the coming weeks represent a critical juncture in the long-running campaign for redress.
