Streeting denies changing pay deal for resident doctors

Health Secretary Denies Altering Pay Agreement for Resident Doctors

Wes Streeting, the Health Secretary, has clarified to the BBC that the government did not modify the pay arrangement for resident doctors to conclude the ongoing industrial action. He expressed a willingness to engage with the British Medical Association (BMA)’s resident doctors committee, but asserted that the union had “point blank refused” any further discussions.

BMA Committee’s Stance

In response, Dr. Jack Fletcher, chair of the BMA’s resident doctors committee, stated that the government had pushed for a three-year settlement at the final stage of negotiations, which included lower financial commitments. While shorter-term agreements were explored, he emphasized that the latest proposal was presented as a last-minute decision.

“We’ve gone as far as we can, I’m never going to shut the door to the BMA, I’m not pretending I’ve solved all of their problems in less than two years. The BMA need to stop pretending that I can, there has to be some give and take.”

The current six-day strike in England is expected to conclude at 06:59 on Monday. Fletcher reiterated that the BMA remains open to meeting with Streeting, stating the union has consistently negotiated in good faith to achieve a resolution.

Pay Rise Claims

During an interview with the BBC’s Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg programme, Streeting highlighted that resident doctors received a 28.9% increase in pay early in the Labour government’s term. He also mentioned a proposed 4.9% raise for this year and up to 7.1% for the lowest-paid professionals.

Despite a cumulative 33% pay rise over the past four years, the BMA contends that doctors are still earning 20% less than in 2008 when adjusted for inflation. Streeting dismissed the claim that the deal was changed at the last minute, suggesting the BMA might have overlooked details or opted to blame the government for ease.

The interview followed the release of a letter by Streeting on X, where he conveyed his disappointment with the recent walkout. He noted that “most of the deal remains on the table,” yet the financial and operational consequences of the strikes have hindered the government from adding 1,000 of the 4,500 extra training spots this year.