A damning new poll reveals the British public overwhelmingly supports striking junior doctors as the NHS faces its worst staffing crisis in history.
Public Backs Medics in Pay Dispute
The exclusive survey shows 64% of Britons believe junior doctors are justified in walking out over pay disputes, with only 24% opposing the industrial action. This comes as the NHS grapples with:
- Record 7.7 million treatment backlog
- Chronic staff shortages across hospitals
- Real-term pay cuts exceeding 26% since 2008
"Patients Understand Our Struggle"
Dr. Mike Greenhalgh, deputy chair of the BMA Junior Doctors Committee, told The Mirror: "When patients see their appointment cancelled for the fifth time, they understand why we're fighting. This isn't just about pay - it's about saving the NHS."
Government Under Fire
Health Secretary Steve Barclay faces mounting criticism after refusing to negotiate during the latest 96-hour walkout. Key concerns include:
- Junior doctors' pay falling 26% behind inflation since 2008
- 1 in 3 junior doctors planning to leave the NHS
- Taxpayer spending £3bn annually on locum cover
"The government is playing political games with patients' lives," said Royal College of Nursing chief Pat Cullen.
What Happens Next?
With both sides entrenched, analysts warn the dispute could:
- Extend into winter when demand peaks
- Trigger coordinated strikes with nurses and consultants
- Force the government to reconsider its 6% pay offer
The next strike is scheduled for August 11-15, potentially becoming the longest in NHS history.
