UK Government Faces £10.5bn Compensation Bill over State Pension Age Rises

The UK government is confronting a significant compensation bill of up to £10.5bn following a ruling by the Ombudsman, pertaining to mishandled state pension age rises affecting women born in the 1950s. The report highlighted the maladministration of the Department for Work and Pension, urging swift parliamentary intervention for the compensation of affected women. With an estimated 3.8 million women impacted, the Ombudsman suggested a compensation bill ranging from £3.5bn to £10.5bn. The government is urged to address the issue and make a clear commitment to compensation for the affected parties. The report also emphasizes the impact of the state pension age changes on affected women's financial and personal autonomy. The government and the DWP have pledged to consider the report and continue supporting pensioners, despite the substantial compensation recommendation.