Reacting to news that ambulance staff from Unison, GMB and Unite will go on strike on 21 December, BMA chair of council Professor Philip Banfield said:

"Ambulance workers have for too long been at the sharp end of a frighteningly under-resourced health service, working with extraordinary dedication in a system that simply does not value them enough.

"Doctors will today offer our solidarity to our colleagues in ambulances who feel this is the only way of getting this government to take the worsening predicament of the health service and its workers seriously.

"Only by listening to and negotiating in good faith with NHS staff will the government have any hope of repairing a health system it has left in dire straits. The starting point must be the NHS’s most important resource – its workforce."

Ends

 

Notes to editors

The BMA is a professional association and trade union representing and negotiating on behalf of all doctors in the UK. A leading voice advocating for outstanding health care and a healthy population. An association providing members with excellent individual services and support throughout their lives.