On 21st March, the Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman (PHSO) published his final report into communication about changes in the state pension age for women born in the 1950s.

This is a serious report that requires serious consideration. The ombudsman has rightly said that it is for the Government to respond and that Parliament should also consider its findings.

Labour will look carefully at the report too, and continue to listen respectfully to those involved, as we have done from the start.

The Secretary of State said in March that he would provide a further update to the House on this matter but is still yet to do so. He should update Parliament or tell us when he is finally going to do so.

Lessons must be learnt from what has happened over recent decades to ensure everyone can properly plan for their retirement. This includes guaranteeing information
about any changes to the state pension age are provided in a timely and targeted way and tailored to individual needs.

We will look at what steps we can take to make this an iron cast commitment for any future Labour government

The full PHSO Report can be found here.