The SNP’s bill for Waspi women compensation raises questions about UK government’s response
London: On Tuesday, something interesting happened in the Commons. Stephen Flynn, the SNP leader, seemed pretty happy as he walked up to present his Waspi compensation bill. It was a bit surprising he got to introduce it since the Labour government isn’t keen on compensation.
This situation puts some pressure on the UK Government. However, only 10 MPs from their side rebelled, including Brian Leishman. That’s a small number compared to the £10.5 billion the Government would need to spend to compensate the Waspi women.
According to Parliament’s rules, the bill can be read again. But the Commons website says the chances of that happening are slim. It’s even less likely since the bill asks the Government to spend money they’d rather not spend.
Flynn’s bill is at the bottom of a long list. He asked the Government to make time for it, but they aren’t required to do so. He pointed out that there’s a bigger issue of trust in politics, which is important for everyone.
He also mentioned that his bill would follow the recommendations of the Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman. If people can’t trust the ombudsman, who can they rely on? Certainly not their Scottish Labour MPs, who mostly stayed quiet except for Leishman.
Earlier this month, MSPs voted unanimously to support compensation for Waspi women. This made the SNP happy, as it showed how Anas Sarwar’s authority is challenged by his colleagues in Westminster.
While this gives political spinners something to talk about, it also highlights the trust issue in politics. Why should Scottish Labour MSPs get praise for supporting the Waspi campaign in Holyrood, where they can’t help, while their MPs avoid responsibility in Westminster?
This victory might just be political gamesmanship, but it won’t stop the Waspi campaigners. They’ve shown they’re determined and won’t give up easily.
