As strikes by resident doctors in England began at 7am on 17th December, Dr Jack Fletcher, chair of the resident doctors committee (RDC), said: 

“At the weekend, tens of thousands of frontline doctors came together to vote to tell the Government their offer was insufficient to call off these strikes. The Government should now know in very clear terms how badly they have handled this situation. Those tens of thousands of doctors will again go out on strike today, making clear that they are willing to stand up for their profession against a totally avoidable jobs crisis. With some facing unemployment and others leaving the country entirely, they are more aware than anyone that short-term thinking won’t cut it. 

“It is well past the time for ministers to come up with a genuinely long-term plan. If they can simply provide a clear route to responsibly raise pay over a number of years, and enough genuinely new jobs instead of recycled ones, then there need not be any more strikes for the remainder of this Government.  

“These strikes are the consequence of hurried, last-minute offers. This way of working is in no one’s interest. If we can sit down to come up with a considered, collaborative roadmap towards the restoration of the NHS workforce, then everyone can come out ahead. If the Government keeps up the pattern of denial, harsh words and rushed half-measures, then we are going to be stuck in the cycle of strikes well into the New Year. 

“We have just had a year of denial from the Government. But the New Year can be far better if we just set our sights on a lasting deal.” 

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.

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