First Minister of Wales, Mark Drakeford MS
On Sunday 24 September, I attended and delivered a reading at the National Police Memorial event at Cardiff’s New Theatre.
This important annual event, hosted by the Police Federation of England and Wales, is a day to remember police officers who have been killed or died in the line of duty. It helps us recognise and pay tribute to the dedication and courage displayed by police officers. In particular, it allows us to recognise the sacrifice made by officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty.
The event followed the England and Wales Police Bravery Awards in July, where I had the privilege of presenting the award to the Wales winner. The annual event is an opportunity for each force to put forward officers who have performed outstanding acts of bravery, while on or off duty. I had the opportunity to meet some of the Welsh nominees again last week.
Both events are a reminder of the huge contribution police officers across Wales make to their communities. At a time when trust and confidence in policing has been under the spotlight, it was heartening to recognise the positive impact made by so many police officers and staff across Wales.
At the Police Bravery Awards, I met Bryn Hughes MBE, father of Nicola Hughes, a Greater Manchester police officer killed while attending a false 999 call in September 2012. Mr Hughes launched a campaign in 2022 for the Elizabeth Cross medal to be given posthumously to emergency services workers killed in the line of duty.
I met Mr Hughes again last week to hear more about his campaign. Through this written statement I wish to record the Welsh Government’s support and endorsement for his Medals for Fallen Heroes campaign which will recognise the sacrifice made by emergency workers including ambulance staff, police officers and members of the fire and rescue services.