WASPI campaigners hailed a “landmark moment” today after clearing a hurdle to have their compensation case heard at the High Court.

The Women Against State Pension Inequality group is seeking a judicial review to force the government to reconsider ruling out a compensation package for women affected by the way changes to the state pension age were communicated.

The campaigners say they have received an update that their case is arguable, having submitted a challenge in February over the decision not to compensate women.

Waspi chairwoman Angela Madden said getting the green light was a “landmark moment.”

The group said it also expects a hearing over its application for a costs capping order, so campaigners won’t be forced to cover unforeseen legal fees should they lose.

It warned it may be forced to withdraw its challenge without this financial safeguard and is calling on supporters to help raise further funds for the case.

Ms Madden said: “We are grateful for the funds raised so far and understand the country’s purse strings are tight, but the government cannot be allowed to brush this injustice aside.”

A parliamentary and health service ombudsman report has suggested compensation ranging between £1,000 and £2,950 could be appropriate for each of those affected.

But the government said  last December that, while it accepted the ombudsman’s finding of maladministration and apologised for there being a delay in writing to 1950s-born women, a blanket compensation scheme costing taxpayers up to £10.5 billion cannot be justified.