POLICE representatives have welcomed news that the Government will look to change the law, making life sentences mandatory for anyone responsible in the death of emergency workers.

Lissie Harper, the widow of PC Andrew Harper who was killed on duty, is campaigning for tougher sentences and her crusade has received support from the UK Government.

PC Harper was tragically dragged to his death behind the getaway car of suspects he was pursuing in 2019. He was just 28 and newly married.

The perpetrators were cleared of murder and instead sentenced for manslaughter.

Chairman of Cumbria Police Federation Paul Williams has welcomed the move, saying it would be "great news and a reflection of the fantastic tireless work Lissie Harper has conducted to make this campaign a success."

Police federations across England and Wales look out for the best interests of those in the force and are partly funded by subscriptions paid by officers.

Federations fight for the rights of officers on topics such as fair pay and legal protections.

Mr Williams said: " This is a positive step by the government and we fully support the introduction of this law.

"Emergency workers put themselves at risk every day to protect and serve the public and it is only right that recognition is given to the very real dangers that are faced.

"The brutal Killing of PC Andrew Harper was sickening and sent waves of shock and disgust throughout the country. Anyone who commits such a crime should never be allowed to walk amongst the community again."

The Ministry of Justice has promised to support Harper's Law, aiming to push the change through Parliament.

Harper's Law means a "no ifs, no buts" life sentence for those guilty of killing an emergency services worker whilst committing a criminal act.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson has posted on social media, pledging to enshrine the tougher sentences in law.