Following the end of strikes by resident doctors in England on 30th July, BMA resident doctors committee co-chairs Dr Ross Nieuwoudt and Dr Melissa Ryan said:

"Resident doctors want this to have been their last strike. We are asking Mr Streeting to leave the political rhetoric behind and put the future of the NHS first.

"He could have prevented strike action if he had made a credible offer last week, instead of what we got: the offer of more talks. Now is the time to get serious.

"In the coming weeks a new cohort of new doctors will join the NHS workforce, facing a future of tens of thousands of pounds of debt, being paid less than their assistants, and shockingly even unemployment. Many will be already looking to jobs abroad. Something has to change.  

“We hope now will be a moment for the Health Secretary to reconsider his strategy. Yesterday saw the start of a new dispute with the Government over a lack of training posts for doctors. There is now a great opportunity for them to seize: they can address both pay and unemployment and secure the future of the NHS workforce within the next few weeks. All it needs is the boldness to come to the table and start putting down concrete offers.

"We're glad to hear Mr Streeting is open to new talks. Let’s make them count."

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.