Greater Manchester mayor hints at support before ruling out financial recompense for pension inequality campaigners
Category: Politics
Andy Burnham, the Mayor of Greater Manchester and Labour candidate in the Makerfield by-election, initially expressed support for compensating women affected by state pension age changes, only to reverse his position within 24 hours. On June 10, 2026, during a hustings event, Burnham called for "recompense" for the Women Against State Pension Inequality (Waspi) campaign, which advocates for approximately 3.6 million women born in the 1950s who claim they were inadequately informed about changes to their pension age. The next day, he clarified that he accepts the government’s final decision not to award financial compensation, a move that has drawn criticism from within the Labour Party.
At the hustings in Makerfield, Burnham stated, "I have long supported the campaign and I feel uncomfortable when politicians were all holding up their banner and then got into government and didn’t do anything." He emphasized that the women "deserve some recompense for the unfairness." His comments suggested a potential shift in Labour's stance on the contentious issue of compensation for Waspi women, which could have political ramifications as the party navigates its position leading up to the upcoming elections.
Following backlash from Labour officials and party members concerned about the implications of such a financial commitment, Burnham quickly walked back his statements. A spokesperson confirmed that he now accepts the final decision against compensation is made, but indicated he might explore alternative forms of support, such as early access to concessionary travel for the affected women.
The Waspi campaign argues that the government’s handling of the increase in the state pension age from 60 to 65 was unfair, particularly because many women claim they received inadequate notice of the change, which was first announced in 1995. The Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman recommended compensation ranging from £1,000 to £2,950 per claimant, potentially costing the government over £10 billion.
Burnham's initial support for the campaign resonated with many who feel the government has failed to address the injustices faced by these women. His comments were seen as a nod to the growing frustration among voters who feel left behind by the current political establishment. The quick reversal, on the other hand, reflects the difficult balancing act Labour faces: supporting vulnerable groups without alienating fiscal conservatives within the party.
Burnham's about-face has sparked intense debate within the Labour Party, exposing divisions over how to handle the Waspi issue. Critics argue that his initial comments were a populist move aimed at winning votes in the Makerfield by-election, which could propel him to a higher political office. Labour has been criticized for its reluctance to support financial compensation, with senior figures like Sir Keir Starmer previously backing the Waspi campaign but later ruling out payments.
By aligning himself with the Waspi women, Burnham risks alienating party members who view the campaign as financially irresponsible. Some Labour insiders have expressed concerns that endorsing compensation could lead to a backlash from voters who believe the funds would be more effectively spent elsewhere, particularly in light of the government's current financial constraints.
As the Makerfield by-election approaches, attention will turn to how Burnham's stance evolves and whether he can maintain support among the Waspi women without jeopardizing his standing within the Labour Party. It will be important to monitor how Labour's leadership responds to Burnham's comments, especially as they prepare for a potential general election. Will they continue to sidestep the compensation issue, or will they find a way to reconcile the demands of the Waspi campaign with fiscal realities?
Upcoming events, such as Labour's national conference later this year, may provide a platform for discussions around the Waspi issue, and how the party chooses to address it could significantly impact its electoral prospects. Burnham's handling of this controversy could also shape his political future, especially if he seeks a prominent role within a potential Labour government.