Health and Social Care Secretary said:
“I hugely value the work of NHS consultants which is why we have
accepted the independent pay review body recommendations in full,
giving them a 6% pay rise this year, on top of last year’s 4.5%
increase. This government has also reformed pension tax rules for
consultants, something the BMA campaigned for over many years.
“I am disappointed the BMA is going ahead with this week’s
strike, given the average consultant’s NHS earnings are expected
to increase to £134,000 a year.
“My door is always open to discuss non-pay issues, but this pay
award is final so I urge the BMA to end their strikes
immediately.”
Background
- The government has reformed the pension tax system alongside
wider changes to the NHS Pension Scheme which will result in more
experienced, senior staff choosing to remain in work for longer.
Because of pensions tax changes, the British Medical Association
say doctors will no longer have to retire early, and the
independent Office of Budget Responsibility estimate 15,000
people will return to the workforce.
- Consultants who are members of the NHS Pension Scheme also
receive a pension contribution worth 20% of pensionable pay. They
are also eligible to apply for additional financial awards worth
up to £40,000 a year as part of the NHS consultant contract.
