Your support helps us tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to big tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it’s investigating the finances of Elon Musk’s pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, ‘The A Word,’ which shines a light on American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know the importance of analyzing the facts of messaging. .
At such a critical moment in American history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to continue sending journalists to tell both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to block Americans from our reporting and analysis with a paywall. We believe that quality journalism should be available to everyone, and paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes a difference.
Women affected changes in the state pension age will not receive compensationin what ministers said was an “extremely difficult decision to make”.
Secretary for Work and Pensions Liz Kendall rejected calls for affected individuals to receive between £1,000 and £2,950 per person, while claiming to understand the dissatisfaction of those affected by this issue.
“I know there are women born in the 1950s who want and deserve a better life, they worked hard at paid jobs and raising families,” she said.
“Many are struggling financially with the cost of living and less savings to fall back on, while worrying about their health and how their children and grandchildren will cope.
“To those women, I say, this Government will protect the pension triple lock, so your state pension will increase by up to £1,900 a year by the end of this Parliament.
“We will reduce waiting lists to get the treatment you need with an extra £22bn of funding for the NHS this year and next. And we will provide the jobs, homes and opportunities your families need to build better lives. I know many women born from 1950s to be disappointed with this particular decision, but we believe it is the right and just decision.”
But the Lib Dems said the decision was “a day of shame for the government”.
More about this breaking news to come…