Wes Streeting has criticized the doctors’ union for seeking increased salaries at the expense of others just before their planned strike action. The Health Secretary expressed strong displeasure towards the British Medical Association (BMA), likening their actions to that of a cartel. The BMA’s resident doctors are set to commence a five-day strike, coinciding with Chancellor Rachel Reeves’ deliberation on potential tax hikes in the upcoming budget.
Addressing attendees at the NHS Providers annual conference in Manchester, Streeting highlighted the challenging financial landscape and the need for equitable choices, especially within the NHS. He emphasized the resistance from BMA committees to contribute more towards funding doctor’s salaries, implying a desire to shift the burden onto third parties.
Streeting accused the BMA of jeopardizing the NHS’s future existence, asserting that the government would not yield to the union’s pressure tactics. He criticized the BMA’s evolving behavior, labeling it as detrimental to the healthcare system’s recovery and sustainability.
In response to the impending strike, Streeting and NHS England’s Sir Jim Mackey instructed hospitals to maintain essential services during the protest. They emphasized the importance of minimizing appointment and operation rescheduling to ensure patient safety remains a priority.
Despite efforts to dissuade the strike, Streeting affirmed the government’s commitment to enhancing the NHS amid the ongoing challenges. He underlined the necessity of progress within the healthcare system regardless of the BMA’s actions.
The BMA’s strike involving resident doctors is scheduled to last from 7 a.m. on November 14 to 7 a.m. on November 19, resulting in anticipated appointment cancellations. The BMA has cited salary erosion since 2008 as a key concern, highlighting a significant decline in real terms earnings based on various inflation indices.
Streeting defended the recent pay increases for doctors and rejected further salary adjustments demanded by the BMA. He expressed frustration with the current standoff but reiterated his dedication to advancing healthcare reforms independently from the BMA’s influence.
A spokesperson for the BMA emphasized the union’s commitment to securing fair pay and job opportunities for doctors while urging the government to value and support the NHS workforce. They called for constructive negotiations to address the ongoing dispute and ensure the welfare of healthcare professionals and patients alike.
