As talks with Government continue in an attempt to avert strike action starting 7th April, the resident doctors committee (RDC) has written to the Health Secretary to set out where the offer from Government last week fell short and what must be done to improve it.

In the letter Dr Jack Fletcher, chair of RDC, says: “We have consistently maintained that we are willing to postpone industrial action should a genuinely credible offer be provided.

 This remains the case now, up to, and throughout any period of industrial action.” In order to cancel action several issues must be addressed in any new Government offer. The letter can be read here.

The issues with the offer include:

On pay

• Investment was reduced from original discussions
• The length of time pay reform was phased over was also shifted to stretch across 3 years
• No protection in multi-year pay deal against the expected rise in inflation

On jobs

• Lack of clarity on how many of the proposed 4,500 jobs are new and how many would replace locally employed doctor (LED) roles

On protections for locally employed doctors (LEDs)

• Lack of enforceability of protections for the contracts of LEDs

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.