Health Secretary Wes Streeting has urged doctors across England to vote against industrial action in the new strike ballot. The vote, which begins Tuesday, targets pay disputes involving resident doctors, previously known as junior doctors. These doctors staged 11 walkouts during 2023 and 2024.
Streeting emphasized the importance of cooperation between doctors and the government. He warned that further strikes could seriously damage NHS recovery efforts. According to him, the nation cannot afford delays while attempting to rebuild public health services.
Recently, the government announced a 5.4% average pay increase for resident doctors. This figure exceeds increases given to nurses, teachers, and other medical professionals. Yet, the British Medical Association claims it still falls short of restoring pre-2008 pay levels.
Resident doctors argue that despite previous raises, their salaries remain well below inflation. Over the past three years, their starting salary rose by £9,500. It now stands at around £38,800 for newly qualified doctors. However, the BMA says a further 20% rise is needed to match 2008 wages.
Resident doctors’ strike ballot organizers insist pay restoration cannot wait for better economic conditions. Dr. Melissa Ryan and Dr. Ross Nieuwoudt, co-chairs of the committee, say striking is the only option left. They urge all members to vote for industrial action.
Streeting acknowledged the past success in resolving disputes last year through negotiation. He reminded the public that he helped end the previous conflict shortly after taking office. But now, he insists that no extra funds are available beyond this year’s pay award.
He stated clearly that fresh strikes would jeopardize hard-earned progress. Streeting believes further walkouts would delay operations, worsen patient outcomes, and undo NHS reforms. His message to resident doctors is simple: choose dialogue over disruption.
While this new ballot unfolds, other groups may follow. Consultants are reportedly preparing to challenge their 4% pay increase. Nurses, midwives, and physios have received only a 3.6% rise. The Royal College of Nursing described this pay gap as “grotesque.”
In contrast, Scotland’s health unions have reached a two-year deal worth 8% for non-doctor staff. So far, Scotland has avoided any NHS strikes. However, tensions in England continue to build around the resident doctors’ strike ballot.
The vote will remain open until 7 July.
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