IN the week of International Women’s Day it has not been a very good week for women. First I see that Nikki Haley has called it a day in her attempt to become the Republican candidate for this year’s US presidential election. A huge move that could have serious implications for the world.
But turning closer to home and the Westminster government’s Budget, the Chancellor would have us all believe that the 2p cut to National Insurance (NI) was ground-breaking! But I would say, ground-breaking for whom? The Chancellor went on to say his plan for NI in the future was to abolish it! So, where will that leave pensions?
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And come to think of it, the WASPI women – who were so badly treated by consecutive Westminster governments regarding increases to their state pension age without proper and legal notice – got no mention in the Budget this week despite the DWP saying it is fully co-operating with the findings of maladministration by the Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman.
This campaign for justice has been going through parliament, parliamentary committees, courts and the ombudsman for around 10 years and once again, when the government of the day had the opportunity, silence prevails.
On International Women’s Day I applaud the WASPI women, the women who have been in this for the long haul and taken on the government. But on this International Women’s Day we also want to celebrate women around the world.
Catriona C Clark
Falkirk
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