THE Government has been asked if it will introduce a new medal for police officers who are injured in the line of duty.

Warrington North MP Charlotte Nichols submitted a written question to the Home Office regarding recognition for officers who put themselves at risk.

This would also cover those officers who are forced to be discharged from service as a result.

The Labour MP’s question to the Secretary of State for the Home Department was: “Will he make it his policy to introduce new medal for police injured on duty and discharged from the service?

In response, Conservative MP Chris Philp, Minister of State for Crime, Policing and Fire, said: “We owe a tremendous gratitude to dedicated police officers for their continued hard work and sacrifice.

“There is no doubt that police officers who have their service cut short through injury have made, and in many cases will continue to make, an invaluable contribution to the emergency services.

“It is right that there are provisions to support police officers who are injured in the line of duty, through the provision of paid leave, the injury benefit scheme and medical retirement where appropriate.

“Alongside the existing Police Long Service and Good Conduct Medal, and the King’s Police Medal, work is continuing on an appropriate way to mark the contribution of emergency workers and other public servants who are killed while serving the public.

“The Government has no plans currently to introduce a medal specifically for police officers who are injured on duty.”