Streeting Rejects Claims of Altered Pay Deal for Resident Doctors Amidst Ongoing Dispute

Health Secretary Wes Streeting has firmly rejected assertions that the government modified its pay and conditions offer to resident doctors, aiming to conclude ongoing industrial action. Speaking to the BBC, Mr Streeting stated, "categorically" the government did not amend its deal.

Disputed Negotiations

Mr Streeting expressed a desire to meet with the British Medical Association's (BMA) resident doctors' committee for further negotiations, alleging they have "point blank refused." Conversely, Dr Jack Fletcher, chair of the committee, countered this, stating that while one or two-year settlements were discussed, "at the very last minute" the government insisted "a three-year deal was the only option, with reduced investment." Dr Fletcher affirmed the BMA resident doctors' committee remains "open and willing to meet with the health secretary" and has "negotiated in good faith."

The latest walkout in England concluded on Monday morning. Mr Streeting highlighted that resident doctors received a "28.9% pay rise within the first weeks of this Labour government" and a deal offering an average of 4.9% more for the current year, with some of the lowest-paid doctors receiving 7.1%.

Blame and Resolution

Addressing the accusation of a last-minute alteration, Mr Streeting suggested the BMA either "didn't read the detail" or found it "more convenient to blame the government." He emphasised, "We've gone as far as we can," while insisting his door remains open. However, he urged the BMA to cease "pretending that I can [solve all problems]" and called for "some give and take."

In a letter published on X, Mr Streeting expressed "disappointment and frustration" over the recent strike, noting that the industrial action's impact made it impossible to bring forward 1,000 of the 4,500 extra training places to this year. He reiterated his invitation to meet, stating, "My door is open - as it always has been."