Following Government action to demands from a campaign supported by Henry Smith MP, the Home Secretary, Sajid Javid, has promised police officers will be given greater protection in and out of the job through a Police Covenant – similar to the Military Covenant introduced under David Cameron when Prime Minister.
The Crawley MP was one of 60 Conservative Members of Parliament backing a Blue Collar Conservatism campaign demanding the next Prime Minister introduce a Covenant, which would include measures to protect mental health of serving and retired officers, equip officers with the right resources and necessary powers to do the job.
It had won the backing of all 19 Conservative Police & Crime Commissioners up and down the country, the Police Superintendents’ Association and from the Chair of the Police Federation of England.
Henry said;
“I’m delighted that following representations from MPs like me in our county, as well as the Sussex Police & Crime Commissioner, Katy Bourne, the Government has announced plans to introduce a Police Covenant to offer protections to officers both in and out of the job.
“I have great admiration for those who serve their community and keep us safe, and the Police Covenant is one way we can give something back and say thank you.”
The Home Secretary, Rt Hon Sajid Javid MP, commented;
“I’m pleased to announce that the Government plans to introduce a Police Covenant to provide the support the police so richly deserve. This will be a pledge to do more as a nation to help those who serve this country.
“It will ensure the sacrifice made by the police is properly recognised. I’m in awe of every officer who plays their part in keeping this country safe. Rest assured, the Government has your back – and the Police Covenant will make sure of that.”
A consultation will now take place on the principle and scope of the Police Covenant.
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