Doctors across England have embarked on their 15th strike in just over three years, escalating an ongoing dispute with the government over pay and working conditions.
The six-day industrial action, led by resident doctors below consultant level, comes despite a previously secured 28.9% pay increase spread over three years.
The standoff continues as doctors push for further wage adjustments, arguing that inflation has significantly eroded their earnings. However, the government insists that meeting such demands is not feasible under current economic conditions.
Wes Streeting criticized the move, condemning the doctors’ union for rejecting a 4.9% pay rise offer during the cost-of-living crisis. He described doctors as the “standout winners” in terms of public sector pay increases and said the strike could cost the National Health Service millions.
On the other hand, the British Medical Association maintains its demand for full pay restoration to 2008 levels.
With both sides firmly holding their positions, the dispute remains unresolved as the strike continues.