The Police Federation of England and Wales (PFEW) welcomes today’s decisive announcement by the Deputy Prime Minister, David Lammy, that those convicted of murdering an off-duty or retired police officer, prison officer or probation officer will face life behind bars. This much-needed change sends a clear message that attacks on those who dedicate their lives to public service must not and will not be tolerated.

On Monday 15 December, PFEW National Chair Tiff Lynch and Deputy National Chair Brian Booth met with the Shadow Justice Minister, Dr Kieran Mullan MP, who has been a tireless advocate for this reform. We commend his commitment to ensuring that the justice system reflects the gravity of such crimes and provides the strongest possible deterrent and welcome today's announcement by the government.

This legislation builds on the foundations of Harper’s Law, which introduced mandatory life sentences for those who kill emergency workers while on duty. Crucially, the new measures go further by recognising that the threat does not end when officers finish their shift. By extending protection to off-duty officers who are deliberately targeted because of their role, this law acknowledges the unique risks faced by those who serve in policing and the wider criminal justice system.

For our members, this change is not just symbolic, it is a vital safeguard. It reinforces the principle that an attack on an officer is an attack on the rule of law itself. While no sentence can undo the devastation caused by such crimes, ensuring perpetrators spend the rest of their lives behind bars offers reassurance to officers and their families that justice will be served.

PFEW National Chair Tiff Lynch said: “This is a landmark moment for policing and the wider justice system. Our members put themselves in harm’s way every day to protect the public and they deserve the strongest possible protection in return. Extending these sentences to cover off-duty officers who are targeted because of their role sends a clear and unequivocal message that those who commit these heinous crimes will never walk free. We will continue to fight for measures that keep our members safe and ensure justice is delivered.”

Deputy National Chair Brian Booth added: “This announcement is a huge step forward and reinforces the aims of our Copped Enough campaign, which calls for tougher penalties for those who harm police officers. It shows that the voices of our members are being heard and that their safety remains a priority.”