News of the introduction of Harper’s Law is “incredible”

THE news that the Government will introduce ‘Harper’s Law’ – mandatory life sentences for those who kill an emergency services worker in the course of their duty – is “incredible”, South Yorkshire Police Federation has said.

Thames Valley PC Andrew Harper was killed in the line of duty in 2019, and his widow Lissie has tirelessly campaigned for a change in the law.

South Yorkshire Police Federation Chair Steve Kent said: “The unbelievable work that Lissie’s done, and the Thames Valley Police Federation, and everybody supporting her, it’s just incredible.”

He added that the mandatory life sentence “should have been the case anyway”.

Steve said: “It should have been there already, but let’s face it, it wasn’t. So this is just an unbelievable piece of work from everybody involved. And a benchmark moment. So well done to all.”

Lissie Harper said: “Emergency services workers require extra protection. I know all too well how they are put at risk and into the depths of danger on a regular basis on behalf of society. That protection is what Harper’s Law will provide and I am delighted that it will soon become a reality.

“It’s been a long journey and a lot of hard work. I know Andrew would be proud to see Harper’s Law reach this important milestone.

“I’d like to thank the teams at the Ministry of Justice and the Home Office and Dominic Raab, Priti Patel and Robert Buckland for working with me to achieve this.

“I would also like to thank my incredible Harper’s Law team as well as the public for their unstinting support for such an important campaign. Those who believed that the right thing is worth doing despite the hurdles and challenges that we needed to be overcome.

“And for the families of those that this Law will provide justice for, we’re almost there. Your continued support has kept me pushing forward.”