The BMA resident doctors committee in England is asking the Health Secretary to enter new talks with a ‘constructive spirit.’

As the latest round of strike action came to an end this morning, the committee sent a letter to Wes Streeting in which the committee chair Dr Jack Fletcher, writes ‘constructive conversations that took place at the eleventh hour prior to the strikes showed that progress is possible… it is disappointing that these talks were offered far too late to be able to avoid strike action.’ He adds: ‘it is in that same constructive spirit that we wish to continue, with the aim of finding a lasting solution that could take strike action off the table for years to come.’ 

BMA resident doctors committee chair Dr Jack Fletcher said:

“Mr Streeting has indicated he is willing to get round the table and we’re keen to engage with that. 2026 must see less name-calling and more deal-making. What we need is a proper fix to this jobs crisis and a credible path towards restoring the lost value of the profession. That must mean the creation of genuinely new jobs, and it could involve a responsible multi-year approach to restoring doctors’ pay. Those are solutions that mean we can build out our future workforce to end the current crisis, solutions which are very much within Government’s power.

"Doctors are frustrated by the year that has just passed. There have been plenty of opportunities for strike action to have been avoided but all too often the Government has moved too little and too late. Nevertheless, the tone of the conversations we had at the eleventh hour before these strikes were cause for optimism that the Government is finally understanding the frustrations of resident doctors in England. We are going into the New Year with a renewed can-do spirit, and we hope Mr Streeting will do the same.

“Doctors have made their determination very clear in last week’s vote to reject the Government offer, then on the picket line. Now they are being asked to ballot for six months’ more industrial action. But a renewed mandate need never be used if we can use this time for constructive conversations and ultimately a good deal. Strikes were not inevitable in 2025 and they are not in 2026 either.”

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.