The British government announced on Monday that Queen Elizabeth will award the National Health Service (NHS) the highest civilian honor in the country, in recognition of the service provided by health workers during the COVID-19 pandemic. The George Cross, which is equivalent in significance to the Victoria Cross, the highest military honor in Britain, is being awarded amidst protests from health sector workers regarding pay and working conditions in the NHS, which reached its limits during the pandemic.
The 95-year-old queen stated in a message accompanying the award that this recognition reflects "acknowledgment of all NHS staff, past and present, in all disciplines and in the four nations" that make up the United Kingdom. She added, "They have collectively supported the people of our country for over seven decades, with courage, compassion, and dedication, demonstrating the highest standards of public service." She continued, "You have our heartfelt thanks and sincere appreciation from us all."
Prime Minister Boris Johnson, who was hospitalized due to COVID-19 in April of last year, stated that he "personally witnessed the courage" of the NHS, explaining that Britain "would not be where we are today without our healthcare services." He added, "I know the whole United Kingdom stands with me in praising and thanking the NHS for all they have done for us, not just in the last year, but since its inception."
While Johnson's government has continuously praised the efforts of NHS workers, it has faced criticism for proposing only a 1% pay increase for staff. The NHS had to deal with one of the worst COVID-19 outbreaks in Europe, leading to over 128,000 deaths in Britain and nearly five million infections. The Royal College of Nursing is demanding a 12.5% pay increase for staff, warning that many nursing staff may leave the profession after the pandemic ends.
