MPS INCLUDING Tim Farron are calling upon Prime Minister Boris Johnson to offer compensation for all families of NHS workers who have tragically died whilst battling the coronavirus.

The demand comes in the form of a cross party letter which has been signed by more than 50 MPs including Mr Farron, MP for Westmorland and Lonsdale.

The MPs have also been joined by 1,150 members of the public who have also offered support for this scheme and wish to see their NHS workers compensated for their tragic losses.

“Those working on the front line in the battle against coronavirus are heroes," said Mr Farron.

“They’re putting their lives on the line and they deserve to be protected.

“Just like members of the armed forces they should know that if the worst happens, the state will help their families.”

The scheme would be similar to those being offered to members of the British Armed Forces.

The MPs are calling for the families of those who lose their lives to be offered a lump sum, a guaranteed income, child payments to eligible children under the age of 18, and the Government should also offer a contribution towards funeral costs.

The idea for the scheme came from Layla Moran, Lib Dem MP for Oxford West and Abingdon.

“The NHS, for instance, isn’t a faceless organisation," she said.

"It is made up of many members of our community, our neighbours and our friends.

The letter says "those on the front line of this battle against coronavirus are heroes.

"However, the risks to themselves and their families that they are taking on a daily basis are not recognised as much as they should be.

"Whilst no money could ever compensate for any loss of life, setting up this scheme would provide security and comfort for those risking their lives at this time of crisis.

"Our gratitude is limitless, and we look forward to hearing from you at your earliest possible convenience."

On Wednesday, it was reported that the number of deaths of patients with coronavirus in UK hospitals had risen to 2,352.

The Department of Health said 29,474 people have tested positive for the virus, up 4,324 since Tuesday.