Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

England's Doctors Strike Amid Flu Surge, Pay Dispute

12/18/2025

40 8 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Resident doctors in England began a five-day strike after rejecting the government's pay and job offer on December 17, coinciding with a surge in flu cases.
Health Secretary Wes Streeting's last-ditch talks with the British Medical Association failed to reach an agreement.
The dispute has lasted 33 months.
National Health Service (NHS) leaders have urged independent mediation.
Acas has offered mediation while both sides have yet to agree.

History

Historical Context

The junior doctors' strikes in England trace back to significant unrest in 2016, when 98% of doctors voted for industrial action against contract changes affecting pay and conditions. This discontent mirrors ongoing negotiations as healthcare demands rise, echoing earlier disputes like the 2015 midwives' strike. The current five-day strike highlights persistent challenges within the NHS, raising concerns about its future.

1 of 2

Story summary

Resident doctors in England began a five-day strike after rejecting the government's pay and job offer on December 17, coinciding with a surge in flu cases.
Health Secretary Wes Streeting's last-ditch talks with the British Medical Association failed to reach an agreement.
The dispute has lasted 33 months.
National Health Service (NHS) leaders have urged independent mediation.
Acas has offered mediation while both sides have yet to agree.

1 / 2