The BMA escalates pressure on government after 35% pay cuts goes unaddressed

As reported by the BBC, more than 86% of consultants have voted in favour of strike action

The BMA has warned that they will follow through with a ballot, unless the government addresses the 35% pay cuts with respect to inflation before April 3rd.

Other unions have paused their plans for industrial action as the government has agreed to enter formal negotiations for pay. The talks are likely to span for three days this week along with ministers and NHS heads.

Junior doctors are however pursuing their 72-hour strike next week due to the government’s lack of communication.

While the ballot does not legally impose a strike, the results are expected to be in favour of the BMA for an agreement to strike.

Approximately 86% of consultants voted for strikes on a turnout of 61%. A figure which largely surpasses the 50% required threshold.

“In my 25 years in the NHS, I have never seen consultants more demoralised, frustrated and in despair over this government’s refusal to support the NHS workforce and the patients they serve,” says Dr Vishal Sharma, chairman of the BMA consultants committee.