The passion, commitment, and specialist knowledge of our junior doctors is part of what makes our NHS so special. That is why I am keen to see a resolution to their dispute with the Government, and the disruption and harm this has caused to patient care.

For 2023-24, the Government has accepted the independent pay review bodies’ pay recommendations in full, recognising the vital contribution that NHS staff make to our country.

Around 130,000 full-time equivalent doctors and dentists, including junior doctors and consultants, have seen their pay rise in line with the Review Body on Doctors’ and Dentists’ Remuneration’s recommendations.

Junior doctors have received a pay rise worth 8.8 per cent on average. Average basic pay for a first year junior doctor has increased from £29,300 to £32,300, while a junior doctor in core training with three years’ experience has seen their salaries increase from £40,200 to £43,900.

Given the prolonged impact on patient care, the Government agreed to enter into further talks with the BMA in good faith. These talks have been constructive, and in the case of consultants an agreement has been found which is now being put to members for a vote. Despite offering junior doctors a further pay uplift and changes to their contract, the BMA decided to reject this, and announce an unprecedented level of strike action.  

December and January are typically the busiest and most challenging months for the NHS. Strike action over this period will lead to longer waiting lists, and disrupt patient care and risk causing direct patient harm over Christmas and New Year.