“At today’s proceedings of the Pensions Bill Labour backbenchers made clear the strength of feeling in support of workers who have lost their pensions” he said.

“The Government have confirmed that they are working hard to collate all the information needed to see what, if any, assistance would be given to the workers affected”.

With that assurance Mr Brennan agreed to withdraw his amendments to the Bill to give the Government more time to come forward with their answer one way or another.

“Labour members were clear that the Government will have to resolve this issue before the Bill returns to the floor of the House” he said. 

Mr Brennan also accused the Conservative front bench of playing “stupid party political games” by voting on the amendment when they don’t support its content. 

They will not say they support using public money to compensate.  This matter will be decided at Report stage on the floor of the House, not by a voting publicity stunt in Committee” he said. 

“Workers affected by this are ill served by this pathetic and bogus posturing“ he added.       

Mr Brennan has pledged to press the issue at Report Stage of the Bill if no Government solution has been found.