MPs get behind campaign for Elizabeth Medal

12 January 2023

Campaigners for a posthumous medal for police officers who die on duty have received another boost after veterans’ affairs minister Johnny Mercer vowed to support their bid in Parliament.

Police Federation Welsh lead Nicky Ryan welcomed the latest development which came after a backbench debate on the issue in Westminster Hall.

Nicky said: “Everyone in policing has thrown their weight behind this campaign so we are genuinely pleased to see it being taken seriously in Parliament.

“Hopefully, we will see the result we all want and all the hard work and effort people have put into trying to make this happen will pay off.

“The families of officers killed on duty all have their own stories but they speak as one in their desire to see their loved ones properly honoured for the sacrifice they have made and that is very important.”

Mr Mercer told MPs the issue was now a priority for the Government and vowed to press for a positive outcome.

He said: “I will take this forward and hope that this year, with a bit of drive and energy, we can bring the campaign to a conclusion with which we are all happy.

“Losing a loved one in the line of duty can never be rectified, whether in police uniform or in the military. 

“It is incredibly important to recognise the sacrifice and the lives of those who serve. I am determined that we will do everything we can to resolve that matter in the near future.”

The backbench debate in Westminster Hall was secured by  Liberal Democrat MP and former police officer Wendy Chamberlain.

Ms Chamberlain, who served for 12 years with Lothian and Borders Police, told MPs: “We have long-standing awards for gallantry, sacrifice and service, for those who have given to our country in all sorts of different ways. It is right that such service deserves recognition, and the recipients and their families are rightly proud.

“But sadly, there are those who have equally served their country and have made sacrifices who are not being recognised as they should.

“No reward or recognition can replace the loss of a loved one, but if we can go someway to make them feel like that loss has been recognised, it is very important.”

The Medals for Heroes campaign was officially launched by the Police Federation, the Police Superintendents’ Association and the Prison Officers’ Association last April.

The campaign is actively supported by Bryn Hughes MBE, whose daughter PC Nicola Hughes and her Greater Manchester Police colleague PC Fiona Bone were murdered 10 years ago.