Health Secretary comment on junior doctors strike

Health and Social Care Secretary Steve Barclay said:

“It is extremely disappointing the BMA is going ahead with further strike action. This 72-hour walkout will put patient safety and our efforts to cut waiting lists at risk. 

“During recent meetings with representatives of the BMA Junior Doctors Committee, we made a fair and reasonable opening offer and were discussing both pay and non-pay issues until they chose to end the talks by announcing new strike dates.

“If the BMA cancels these damaging and disruptive strikes and shows willingness to move significantly from their position, we can resume confidential talks and find a way forward, as we have done with other unions.

“People should attend appointments unless told otherwise by the NHS, continue to call 999 in a life-threatening emergency and use NHS 111 online services for non-urgent health needs.”

Background

• DHSC has published a media fact sheet on NHS strikes here: NHS strikes - media fact sheet - Department of Health and Social Care Media Centre (blog.gov.uk)
• NHS England has published advice for the public here: NHS England » Information for the public on industrial action
• We are working with NHS England to put in place contingency plans to protect patient safety. The NHS will prioritise resources to protect emergency treatment, critical care, neonatal care, and trauma.