Story perspectives

England's Resident Doctors Strike Amid Pay Dispute, NHS Warns

12/20/2025

Summary

Story summary

Resident doctors in England began a five-day strike, the 14th since March 2023, over pay.
The British Medical Association reported 83% rejection of the government's latest offer, which added training posts but gave no pay rise.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer criticized the strike as 'dangerous'.
The British Medical Association faces clerical staff strikes amid ongoing negotiations.
The National Health Service (NHS) warns of disruptions amid a record flu season.

History

Historical Context

The junior doctors' strikes in England in 2016 stemmed from widespread dissatisfaction with proposed contract changes, with 98% rejecting the new terms. This unrest followed a history of deteriorating NHS conditions since the Conservative-led government returned in 2010, marked by the Health and Social Care Act 2012. Today, similar protests highlight ongoing struggles for fair compensation and working conditions within the NHS.

1 of 2

Story summary

Resident doctors in England began a five-day strike, the 14th since March 2023, over pay.
The British Medical Association reported 83% rejection of the government's latest offer, which added training posts but gave no pay rise.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer criticized the strike as 'dangerous'.
The British Medical Association faces clerical staff strikes amid ongoing negotiations.
The National Health Service (NHS) warns of disruptions amid a record flu season.

1 / 2