Responding to the data published by NHS England, the co-chairs of the BMA junior doctors committee Dr Vivek Trivedi and Dr Robert Laurenson said:
"Every day junior doctors despair as they see operations cancelled and treatment postponed for the millions on the waiting lists because our health services are in crisis. But rescheduling appointments as a result of the strike action could have been avoided if the Health Secretary had come to the table and negotiated an agreed settlement with us before any strike action was taken. The NHS had more than two months’ notice that we would strike for 72 hours if the ballot was successful; the Government has been in no doubt about our campaign for full pay restoration for over six months and this has been borne out by the number of junior doctors in England who have taken part in the industrial action.
"We are due to meet with the Health Secretary, Steve Barclay, next week. Junior doctors are keen to see their pay restored and to avoid further disruption to patient care, so if the Health Secretary is as committed to finding a settlement as he claims to be, it is within his gift to offer a deal so junior doctors can earn what they are worth, avoid further strike action and give patients the care they deserve."
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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.