**Strikes Banned? Tories’ Bold Move to Restrict NHS Doctors' Actions Raises Eyebrows**
Kemi Badenoch, the leader of the Conservative Party, has proposed a controversial policy of banning strikes by NHS doctors should her party regain power. This move aims to establish minimum service levels within the health sector, putting NHS doctors under strike restrictions similar to those imposed on police officers, soldiers, and prison officers. In response, Dr. Tom Dolphin, chair of the British Medical Association (BMA), criticized this suggestion as a ”desperate intervention” from a government that has struggled with the NHS for nearly 15 years.
The backdrop to this policy announcement is a five-day strike initiated by thousands of resident doctors over dissatisfaction with pay negotiations between the government and the BMA. Historically, the UK permits public sector workers, such as doctors, to strike, except for members of the police and non-civilian military personnel.
Despite a reported 5.4% pay increase this year and a 22% raise over the past two years, the BMA argues that real wages have decreased by 20% since 2008 when inflation is factored in. They contend that a 26% raise is crucial to counteract this wage drop.
Badenoch asserted that current salary increases to physicians are already generous compared to other sectors, describing a ”fair deal” that supports doctors while safeguarding taxpayers’ interests. She believes these proposals are in the “national interest”, aiming to protect both the public and the NHS.
Dr. Dolphin defended the doctors’ right to strike, labeling it a necessary last resort in pursuing fair treatment, and claimed it was inappropriate for a modern democracy to consider banning such actions. He reminded that processes are in place for emergency situations, allowing hospitals to summon striking doctors if necessary.
Health Secretary Wes Streeting voiced that the government would resist any attempts by the BMA to exert excessive influence, assuring that minimal disruption would occur within the NHS during this industrial action. Initial reports suggest a significant portion of non-urgent hospital work continues amid the strike, although some patients have experienced the cancellation of scheduled surgeries.
The Conservative proposal is framed as aligning the UK’s regulations with countries like Australia and Canada, which enforce stricter action against industrial disruptions in healthcare. However, the BMA opposes this idea, labeling the Conservative stance as misleading. The situation remains dynamic, with further commentary anticipated from the Labour Party regarding these proposals.