My statement: Disgraceful decision on WASPI women

There was palpable anger in the Chamber when the government announced there would be no compensation for WASPI women.

This is despite the independent Ombudsman recommending that compensation should be issued.

Make no mistake, Liz Kendall’s statement is a huge let down to thousands of 1950s women, and to blame this decision on the inheritance from the Conservatives is frankly disgraceful.

Yes, it’s true the economy was left in a shambles, but asking wronged pensioners to pay the price for the Conservatives mismanagement is simply wrong.

For years, Liberal Democrats have pushed the government to fairly compensate WASPI women in line with the Ombudsman’s recommendations – and in July, I signed an EDM urging the Government to come forward with a proper plan for compensation.

Today’s heartless decision cannot be allowed to stand, and I’ll be pressing ministers to give those affected the fair treatment they deserve.