Resident Doctors in England Announce 4-Day Strike This June Over Pay Dispute

Resident doctors across England are preparing for another round of industrial action, marking the 16th time they have walked out in a long-standing dispute over pay. The British Medical Association (BMA) confirmed that the strike will last four days, beginning at 7:00 AM on Monday, June 15, and concluding at 6:59 AM on Friday, June 19.

The decision follows a recent meeting between the BMA and the newly appointed Health Secretary, James Murray. While there were hopes that a change in leadership at the Department of Health and Social Care would bring a fresh perspective, union leaders expressed disappointment. Dr. Jack Fletcher, the BMA resident doctor lead, noted that the government’s stance remains unchanged, citing an unwillingness to move on the issue of additional funding.

From the government’s side, James Murray has labeled the union’s pay demands as unrealistic and unaffordable. Officials pointed out that resident doctors have seen a 33% pay increase over the last four years, including a 3.5% bump this year. Currently, starting salaries sit just above £40,000, with senior resident doctors earning a basic pay of £76,500. However, the BMA argues these figures do not tell the whole story, as they can earn more through unsociable hours and overtime.

When adjusted for inflation, the BMA claims doctors are still earning a fifth less than they were in 2008. The union had hoped for more ambition from the new secretary to break the logjam, but says they were met with the same tired lines regarding job security and no new money on the table. As the mid-June dates approach, patients are advised to stay informed about how these walkouts might affect local services.

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