A CUMBRIAN MP has spoken about a campaign which aims to get the Government to scrap tuition fees for student nurses, midwives and paramedics.

The News & Star is part of a nationwide campaign by parent company Newsquest urging the Government to waive this year’s tuition fees for essential student workers who are currently working during the pandemic.

A petition has so far won the support of more than 700 people across the country with cross-party support from politicians all over the UK.

Some of the workers are finishing unpaid placements while others are now paid as contracted band 4 level nurses.

Dr Neil Hudson, MP for Penrith and the Border, said: “I want to put on record my thanks and tribute to the healthcare professional students who have been working so selflessly in the NHS and looking after people during these unprecedented times.

“I am really pleased the Government is recognising this with funding support to students in nursing, midwifery and other allied disciplines.”

MP for Copeland Trudy Harrison also said: “I think Covid-19 has highlighted the value of frontline workers and included in these are those in the healthcare sector.

“But it is also important to note that many frontline workers have been called into action over recent weeks and I pay tribute to each and everyone.

“There are financial measures in place for nurses to be able to study towards their degree.”

She added that she was keen to support medical schools.

Labour MP Judith Cummins had been spurred on by the campaign and submitted a written question to Conservative minister for health Helen Whately, the minister for care at the end of April - asking if the Government had any plans to lift their tuition fees in a show of gratitude.

Mrs Whateley said: “Their efforts have been crucial in the national effort to protect the NHS and save lives.

“The Government has already said that all students who are working in the NHS will be rewarded fairly for their hard work, and of course, nursing students who opt in will receive a salary and automatic pension entitlement, as well as their student maintenance loan.

“From September, all nursing students will also receive at least £5,000 a year, which they will not need to repay, in order to help with their living costs.

“This demonstrates this Government’s commitment to supporting those who are doing so much for our country.”

However she also said there were “no plans to reimburse tuition fees and students will continue to be required to pay fees for their final term”.

To sign the petition go online: www.change.org/p/government-fair-deal-for-students-nurses-paramedics-and-midwives-on-front-line-of-coronavirus-fight