Assaults on emergency workers have risen by almost a quarter in recent weeks, new figures have shown.

Hampshire Police Federation has spoken out about the “disappointing” increase in attacks after provisional data from police forces in England and Wales showed that assaults saw a 24 per cent rise in the four weeks to 7 June.

The Home Secretary is due to unveil plans that will double the sentences for offenders who assault emergency workers to two years. Priti Patel told The Daily Telegraph: “The senseless violence we have seen levelled at brave police officers in recent weeks is incredibly alarming. An attack on one of our brave officers is an attack on us all. I have always been clear that anyone who assaults the people who run towards danger to keep the rest of us safe should expect to face the full force of the law.

“The Justice Secretary and I are determined to get justice for emergency service workers who are assaulted while on the job, so in the next few weeks we will launch a consultation on doubling the maximum sentence for assaulting an emergency worker to make these thugs think twice.”

Alex Charge, Hampshire Police Federation Chair, said: “The Home Secretary’s intention to increase sentencing for those who assault officers is very welcome. Officers who protect the public should be protected themselves.

“I fear that increased powers alone are not enough and I would hope and expect that courts use these powers to make an example of criminals who choose to assault officers and send them to prison. This gives a clear message that it is not in any way acceptable and there are clear consequences for doing so.”

The National Police Chiefs’ Council said the increase may be driven by assaults during protests and suspects spitting on officers while claiming to be infected with Covid-19.

Martin Hewitt, NPCC Chair said: “Assaults on emergency workers who do crucial work for the good of us all are deplorable. This is an offence and those caught will be prosecuted with the support of the Crown Prosecution Service.”