BOLTON MP Yasmin Qureshi has backed a campaign which would see families of front-line coronavirus victims compensated.

50 cross-party MPs and more than 5,000 members of the public have backed a campaign started by fellow MP, Layla Moran, calling for a Coronavirus Compensation Scheme for the families of key frontline workers who lose their lives to the virus.

The MPs’ letter to the Prime Minister says “those on the frontline of this battle against coronavirus are heroes” and advocates for the scheme to mirror that already in place for the Armed Forces.

The scheme would include a lump sum up-front, a guaranteed income for their family, child payments to eligible children under 18 and contributions towards funeral costs.

The call follows reports that hundreds of doctors are less likely to return to the frontline or increase their hours because they fear their families will not be properly compensated if they lose their lives.

The Coronavirus Compensation Scheme should be open to the families of those classified as key workers, notably NHS and social care staff as well as teachers.

Yasmin Qureshi said:“Those on the frontline, who are putting themselves in harm’s way every day to save others, are heroes. They should know that the state will help their families if the worst happens.

“A Coronavirus Compensation Scheme would provide security and comfort for those risking their lives in the face of COVID-19, although of course no money could ever compensate for any loss of life.

“I’m calling on the Government to introduce this compassionate compensation scheme without delay”