SDLP Leader Claire Hanna MP has said the UK Government has failed Waspi Women by their blanket refusal of compensation.

She was speaking after the announcement that women would not be compensated for poor communication of changes to women’s pensions.

South Belfast and Mid Down MP Ms Hanna said:

“Women affected by the Pensions Act have campaigned relentlessly for years and were given some hope by the long-awaited parliamentary ombudsman's report, having been fobbed off for so long by the last Government.

“Women consistently carry a disproportionate burden of austerity and that generation in particular fell further behind their male counterparts in wage growth, rates of occupational pensions and financial security in retirement. These factors, plus the finding of maladministration, clearly merited recognition by the current Government and this decision will have come as a real blow.

“While the sums involved are very large, there is a definite injustice experienced by a significant number and a blanket refusal to redress is not acceptable. This is a wrong that must be righted.

“This decision will force Waspi women back to the courts and the SDLP will continue to support them in their quest for fair redress for the many who experienced real hardship due to the handling of this change.”