HELEN Jones has called for better treatment of nurses and carers.

The Warrington North MP wants nurses and other public sector workers to be given a 2.5 per cent pay rise and for carers to receive more support.

"Nurses are an integral part of our NHS and, along with other public sector workers, I believe merit the full pay increase recommended by their pay review bodies at the start of the financial year," she said.

Mrs Jones, a Labour MP since 1997, has warned against the Government staggering the pay deal as it currently plans to.

"The current plans mean they will not get the recommended award which I think they are entitled to," she said.

"I hope the Government will rethink its decision."

Mrs Jones, meanwhile, has welcomed the Government's £33m New Deal for Carers, which will see Warrington Borough Council receive £800,000 to provide emergency support.

Half a million people in the north west alone provide unpaid care for an ill, frail or disabled relative, friend or partner.

"I am delighted the Government continues to recognise the contribution carers make to society and has allocated additional funding to support them," she said.

"The £800,000 will give carers peace of mind and ensure that they look after their own health and well being."

The New Deal for Carers is an update on Labour's 1999 Carers Strategy.

It will see £25m divided between all the local authorities, £3m spent on a national advice service and £5m on training programmes to help carers cope following a nationwide consulation.