Renewed call for justice on pensions

The East Sussex branch of Equitable Members Action Group (EMAG), lead in Bexhill by area co-ordinator Ray Bittan, are targeting MPs still sitting on the fence over the scandal which saw thousands left penniless after the pension company collapsed in 2000.

And, Ray said, he needs the help of the 4,000 people in the local area who were directly affected.

He said: "There's a countrywide campaign going on with EMAG and our local group wants to put as much pressure as possible on MPs and candidates for the next election.

"Our MP Greg Barker seems to be very supportive, but also careful about going too far."

But the tide of support ignited by a public meeting in St Augustine's Church last April seems to have died, and Ray is anxious to remind Bexhill and Hastings of the injustice suffered by many of the town's elderly.

He said: "After the meeting we formed a committee of people, but now two have now droppped out.

"Some have said they do not think anything will ever come of our work, and I guess there are some who might be too old to get involved. EMAG now thinks only about 10 per cent of the original pensioners could get any compensation."

In November 2009 MP Greg Barker joined Ray and other EMAG members to present a petition to the House of Commons. Despite the recommendation of the Parliamentary Ombudsman, Equitable Life members are yet to receive any compensation.

In the run-up to this year's election, Ray believes there has never been a more important time for people to throw their weight behind EMAG.

He said: "We want to impress upon people and MPs in particular that the way they are doing it is not what we would call democratic. All the discussions are being made by government, not Parliament. The government are not acting on our behalf.

Anybody willing to help can contact Ray through the Equitable Life regional website: www.emagregional.org.uk

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