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The Secretary of Health has accused the British Medical Association (BMA) of behaving like a cartel and endangering the future of the NHS. Wes Streeting criticized the doctors’ union on the eve of the 13th strike by resident doctors in England, scheduled to commence on Friday. During a speech at the NHS Providers conference in Manchester, Streeting condemned the BMA for holding both the public and the government hostage with their actions. He highlighted their opposition to taxing the wealthy in order to protect senior doctors and pensions.
The impending five-day walkout of resident doctors, previously known as junior doctors, is set to start at 07:00 GMT on Friday. The strike follows the breakdown of talks between the BMA and the government last week. Although the government proposed covering exam fees and accelerating the expansion of training places, the BMA rejected the offer, insisting that pay issues needed to be addressed. Streeting firmly stated that negotiations on pay were off the table due to the nearly 30% pay increases resident doctors had received in the last three years.
Streeting received applause from NHS managers for his strong criticism of the BMA. He emphasized the impact of strike actions on patients, NHS staff, and the service as a whole, especially during challenging times like winter. The Health Secretary urged the BMA to rethink their stance and consider the consequences of their actions on the healthcare system. Additionally, he called out the union for opposing higher taxes on the wealthy, accusing them of hindering efforts to improve public finances and invest in the NHS.
The BMA defended its position, asserting that it was advocating effectively for doctors as a trade union. In response to Streeting’s accusations, the BMA highlighted the ongoing challenges faced by doctors in finding work and the disparity in pay compared to 2008 levels. The union expressed willingness to return to negotiations and find a resolution to the dispute. Despite the escalating tensions between the government and the BMA, both parties recognize the importance of reaching a solution to end the ongoing conflict and ensure the welfare of NHS staff and patients
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