Plans to double the maximum jail term for criminals who assault emergency workers to two years are being considered by the UK government.
Just two years ago, a previous law change doubled the maximum term from six months to 12 in England and Wales, and ministers have now launched a consultation on whether to increase the term further.
Firefighters, police officers, prison officers and NHS staff are among those covered by the law.
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Justice Secretary Robert Buckland told BBC Breakfast: “Stories of many front-line workers, particularly during this time of Covid, have really hit home not just with us but with the public as well and the vital importance of doing everything we can to safeguard our frontline emergency workers.
“Everything that needs to be done should be done, hence today’s announcement.”
BBC
