Bolton South East MP Yasmin Qureshi has joined calls for a 'coronavirus compensation scheme' for the families of health workers who lose their lives in the fight to combat Covid-19.
The campaign was started by Liberal Democrat MP for Oxford West and Abingdon, Layla Moran and is now backed by more than 50 MPs of all parties.
A petition has now gained more than 5,000 signatures from the public and an open letter has been written to Boris Johnson.
The letter to the Prime Minister says: “those on the frontline of this battle against coronavirus are heroes”.
It goes on to explain that the scheme is for the families of key frontline workers who lose their lives to COVID-19, and would mirror what is already in place for the Armed Forces.
The compensation would include:
- a lump sum up front
- a guaranteed income for their family
- child payments to eligible children under 18
- contributions towards funeral costs
Labour MP, Ms Qureshi said: “Those on the frontline, who are putting themselves in harm’s way every day to save others, are heroes. They should know that the state will help their families if the worst happens.
“A coronavirus compensation scheme would provide security and comfort for those risking their lives in the face of COVID-19, although of course no money could ever compensate for any loss of life.
“I’m calling on the Government to introduce this compassionate compensation scheme without delay.”
