I’ve been campaigning for emergency workers killed in the line of duty to receive a special medal in recognition of the sacrifice they have made.

This week the campaign gained momentum after Government said it will consider the call.

What I want introduced is a posthumous award in recognition of the dedication and hard-work of those killed, in a similar way the Elizabeth Cross is awarded to the next of kin of armed services personnel killed serving their country.

Awarding a medal to the families of those who have given their lives in the line of duty will not ease their pain and suffering but I hope it will go some way to showing our gratitude for the service given by their loved one.

I know from talking to affected families how much this would mean to them.

In a letter from cabinet minister Lord True, he said the call from myself and other Conservative colleagues will be considered and that Government recognised the vital role emergency service workers play in society.

He wrote: “This is never more true than when officers and staff make the ultimate sacrifice in order to keep us safe.

“All UK honours and gifts are in the personal gift of HM The Queen under the Royal Prerogative. 

"The committee on the Grant of Honours, Decorations and Medals (HD committee), gives advice to the Queen on matters, including new forms of official recognition.

"I can confirm that the Committee will consider the options for recognition of those who have lost their lives in the line of duty.”

I want to see a new Elizabeth medal in the very near future and I hope the committee will agree to that.

Knutsford Guardian:

Our emergency workers are often the first to put themselves in danger to ensure the safety of others and we need to recognise that.

I have the utmost respect for the work they do, often in the most challenging of circumstances, and believe we need to show them how grateful we are.

That is why I led the campaign in Westminster to increase the maximum sentence someone can be given for assaulting an emergency worker and as of June, judges were allowed to hand out 24 months, up from the previous 12 month limit.

And that is why I will keep putting pressure on Government to introduce this posthumous award.