A FORMER Carlisle MP has written to the Queen and Prime Minister Boris Johnson suggesting that the NHS should be awarded the George Cross – the UK's highest civilian gallantry award.

Eric Martlew, who served as the city’s MP between 1987 and 2010, says he has been immensely impressed by the courage of NHS workers - in Cumbria and beyond - who have worked through the pandemic, risking their lives every day to care for others who are seriously ill with Covid-19.

More than 200 have died after contracting Covid-19.

"I believe these workers meet the criteria for a George Cross," said Mr Martlew. "They've been suffering casualties every week. None of us wants to go near the hospital because of covid, but they go back every day, knowing there's a risk."

The Labour Party veteran says the issue is not about politics, but about honouring the professionalism and courage of NHS staff.

He hopes the proposal will win cross-party support.

In his letters, he says: "I would like you to consider my suggestion that the George Cross should be awarded to the NHS.This award was instituted by King George VI in 1940. It is the civilian equivalent to the Victoria Cross and is awarded 'only for acts of the greatest heroism or the most conspicuous courage in circumstances of extreme danger.' I believe the NHS has consistently met this criteria.

"The consequences of the pandemic have been truly terrible but would have been much worse had it not been for the bravery, dedication and professionalism of the NHS.

"Since early last year the NHS has been under constant pressure with many staff losing their lives in the battle against Covid-19. Many others have and will suffer illness and trauma before this emergency is over."

There are two comparisons that I believe cement my argument.

Mr Martlew said the award was given to Malta during the siege of 1942 “to bear witness to a heroism and devotion that will long be famous in history.” It also went to The Royal Ulster Constabulary during “the troubles” in Northern Ireland, which claimed the lives of 312 police officers. Awarded in 1999, it recognised the “collective land sustained bravery" of the officers who served during the troubles.

Mr Martlew's letter added: "I am conscious this award is in the gift of the Queen and I have written to Her Majesty asking her to consider this. I am aware that she will seek advice from the Government and Privy Council. I feel that if you were to endorse it there would be all-party support and overwhelming agreement in the country."

What you do think about Eric's proposal?