Consultants in England are set to walk out for two days next month, the British Medical Association (BMA) has announced. The strike is planned for November 25 and 26 after the union accused the Government of “ignoring concerns” around the “wellbeing and workload” of medics.
Strike can be called off if talks begin
The BMA said the strike can be scrapped if Health Secretary Yvette Cooper commits to formal negotiations on pay and working conditions.
Ms Cooper described the announcement as “very disappointing” and said the Department of Health and Social Care and NHS England “have been in constructive discussions” with the union.
Winter pressure concerns
She added that taking industrial action as the NHS prepares for winter would be “irresponsible”.
The walkout comes as the health service braces for the seasonal pressures of the winter months.
