I have written to the Department of Work and Pensions on several occasions to highlight concerns regarding the changes to the state pension age for women born in the 1950s.
This is a subject that I recognise many people feel strongly about and that it will have an impact on women born during this period.
I do believe that the concept of equalisation of the age for men and women to be fair, however I understand concerns as to the notice that was given for these changes to take place. As such I have sought further clarification on this particular point.
The Minister stated in his reply to me that after the legislation was passed in 1995, the proceeding 16 years saw the issue reported, debated at length, the use of an 'extensive advertising campaign', leaflets and later individual letters were posted to women affected. Furthermore the Department for Work and Pensions has issued more than 13 million personalised statements. The Government is therefore confident that appropriate notifications for the changes have been provided.