25th March 2024: A Week in Parliament

PHSO Report on 1950s women

I welcome the recent report from the Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman (PHSO), which sheds light on the plight of 1950s women affected by changes to the state pension age. The report's findings underscore the urgent need for action and accountability. As I've stated before, justice delayed is indeed justice denied. The PHSO's recommendation for Parliament to intervene and identify a mechanism for providing appropriate remedy is a crucial step forward. The report highlights significant concerns regarding the DWP’s ability to address this injustice adequately. The prospect of further delays and uncertainty for complainants is unacceptable, and it is imperative that Parliament takes decisive action to ensure a fair resolution. While the recommended compensation, ranging between £1,000 and £2,950 per person, is welcome, it falls short of addressing the full extent of the hardship faced by these women. Nevertheless, it is a massive step in the right direction that compensation is being discussed. My Private Members' Bill stands as a remedy to address these issues and provide the support these women are owed. I urge the UK Government to support this initiative and work towards rectifying this longstanding injustice without further delay. It's time for Westminster to act in the best interests of these women and ensure that they receive the justice and support they deserve. The PHSO's call for immediate parliamentary intervention cannot be ignored, and I will continue to push for meaningful action on this critical issue.

Westminster cuts to Scottish block grant

I'm deeply concerned about the UK Government's lack of understanding regarding the "real terms" impact of budget decisions on Scotland's block grant funding. Despite clear evidence from institutions like the Institution of Civil Engineers, the government denies the reality of these cuts. The recent Spring Budget for 2024 has significantly reduced Scotland's block grant funding by £1.6 billion over two years, posing far-reaching consequences for our economy and infrastructure. Westminster's dismissive attitude is alarming, considering the multiplier effect in industries like construction, where every £1 spent generates an additional £2 in spending. This £1.6 billion cut has a wider impact, depriving our economy of £3 billion. It's crucial to challenge the UK Government's narrative and ensure fair funding for Scotland, especially in crucial areas like infrastructure investment, to avoid undermining our economic prospects.

Gaza

The crisis in Gaza demands urgent action, but the UK Government's response falls short. Despite the alarming death rate among Gaza's children highlighted in the recent IPC report, Westminster continues to avoid holding Israel accountable and instead sells arms to them. Last week, I challenged Secretary of State Andrew Mitchell on whether the UK Government has received legal advice regarding Israel's obstruction of aid to Gaza - what we all know is a clear violation of international law. However, the Minister's response lacked transparency and failed to address the issue adequately. It's crucial for Westminster to take decisive action to ensure aid reaches those in need and uphold international law in Gaza and beyond.