Responding to the Scottish Government announcement on pay, in a joint statement, chairs of BMA Scotland's Consultants and SAS committee, Dr Joanna Bredski and Dr Sine Steele, said:

"The imposition announced by the Scottish Government is both deeply disappointing and extremely concerning for the future of the profession and the NHS. It is regrettable the Cabinet Secretary has decided to ignore previous agreements and imposed the 3.5% pay uplift for both consultants and SAS doctors and without offering any further negotiation on ending pay erosion or reforms which improve working conditions and prevent burnout. 

“We have been clear with the Cabinet Secretary on the need to ensure the medical profession remains an attractive and sustainable career and that Scotland can attract and retain the doctors it needs. In a recent meeting with Ms Constance we outlined the urgent need to address the longstanding issues affecting our profession, our patients and the NHS. 

“We know from our recent pay survey that half of consultants said they’d be likely or very likely to leave the NHS in Scotland if the Government were to impose the 3.5% pay uplift and three-quarters told us that their morale would decrease or significantly decrease.  Unless our pay and working lives as a whole are improved, we will go on losing the senior doctors who are so vital to the NHS in Scotland. 

“We will now be talking to our membership and considering next steps.  All options are on the table."

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.