WASPI fight for justice goes on
BY RENFREWSHIRE SOUTH MSP TOM ARTHUR
Last week was a milestone moment for WASPI women, and should have been a time for relief and celebration, but heartbreakingly their fight to right the injustice heaped on them carries on.
I have been firm in my support for women across my constituency of Renfrewshire South who were impacted by the changes to the state pension age, and whom have been vindicated by the Public Health Services Ombudsman’s report.
The issue has arisen due to woeful communication to affected women about the changes, meaning many women were in the dark about the changes, leaving them unable to plan for the significant financial challenges that this could bring.
The WASPI campaign has been led by the affected women, and at various times supported by politicians across the political spectrum.
I’ve spoken at WASPI meetings across the constituency alongside Labour as well as Tory politicians and we were united in our support of their campaign for justice.
It is therefore deeply upsetting to see the UK Government refusing to constructively engage in their issue, and Labour saying they will “respect” WASPI women – but not promise to pay up.
At the heart of this issue is the group of 1950’s born women who have lost between £8,116 and £12,140 and they deserve action and reparations.
I will continue in my steadfast support and my constituency MP colleagues Gavin Newlands, Kirsten Oswald and Mhairi Black will be tireless in their pursuit of demanding action from the UK Government.
Whilst Labour is styling themselves as the party for “change” and are likely to win the next UK General Election, it is clear that they are offering nothing but the same – keeping the bedroom tax, the rape clause, continuing austerity and even turning to Thatcherism.
I can only imagine the horror of my constituents in places like Linwood when they heard Labour endorsing the economic policies of Thatcher – the same policies that scarred communities that still feel the effects decades later.
I have stepped up my community and constituent engagement as a response to the cost-of-living crisis, holding more street surgeries and supermarket surgeries on top of my existing commitments.
Households are continuing to feel the strain of increased costs, and people need practical action and financial support, not just another slogan.
I am proud that the Scottish Government is continuing day after day to uphold its promises to support people through the worst, with a council tax freeze alongside support such as the Scottish Child Payment and the Job Start Payment ensuring that our young people have the best possible start.
Last week I had the pleasure of visiting St Luke’s High in Barrhead.
I contacted the head teacher Christine Downie following the school’s outstanding Education Scotland inspection report to offer my congratulations, and was delighted to be able to meet to do so in person.
The results are a clear reflection of the strong school team, and the pupils also understanding and engaging with the importance of community and pride in their collective achievements.
I was able to listen to pupils discuss positively their experiences and share their views on the report, and I am pleased to have been made so welcome.
I look forward to celebrating their successes that I am sure will continue on.
As ever, if any constituents want to get in touch to discuss an issue I can help with, please get in touch via tom.arthur.msp@parliament. scot or call my Johnstone office on 01505 331990.