Junior doctors have agreed to talks with the Ministry of Health to end the strikes.
The British Medical Association announced last night that it will meet with representatives next week for a preliminary meeting that could lay the groundwork for negotiations in the coming weeks.
However, a new pay deal for this year is said to be “off the table” as the government insists the current arrangement is “fair and final”.
In March, young doctors, including those below the rank of specialist, went on strike for the first time to demand a 35 percent salary increase. They say their wages have been cut in real terms since 2008.
The British Medical Association announced last night that it will meet with representatives next week for a preliminary meeting that could lay the groundwork for negotiations in the coming weeks.
In July, Health Secretary Steve Barclay said they would receive a 6 per cent rise, with an additional consolidated increase of £1,250.
This meant they received an average salary increase of 8.8 percent, while first-year hospital graduates’ salaries rose by 10.3 percent.
NHS staff strikes have led to the cancellation of more than a million appointments since November, sending waiting lists soaring – they now stand at a record 7.75 million.
Respond to the announcement of talks about [full pay restoration] Was presented. And in the long term.”
A Department of Health spokesman said: “We are pleased that the BMA… has agreed to discussions in the hope that we can find a solution and end the dispute.”
“We have made it clear that there will be no fixed rate payment as doctors have already received a fair and reasonable pay rise as recommended by the Independent Pay Review Body, which we have fully accepted.”
Advisers who got a 6 per cent raise but want more have also protested and recently agreed to part ways with ministers.
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Crystal Leahy is an author and health journalist who writes for The Fashion Vibes. With a background in health and wellness, Crystal has a passion for helping people live their best lives through healthy habits and lifestyles.
