Resident doctors in England have agreed to end their planned strike following a new government proposal, according to the British Medical Association (BMA).
The strike, which was set to begin on Monday, 8 July, as the 16th such action in 2023, was called off after the government presented what the BMA described as a final offer.
Dr Jack Fletcher, chair of the BMA’s resident doctors committee, emphasized that the decision was made after evaluating the offer, which includes standard 2016 contract terms for locally employed doctors and an average 6.6% pay increase to be fully implemented by April 2027.
The proposal is now subject to a member vote, with the BMA indicating that further action may be considered if the offer is rejected. Fletcher stated the union would continue to negotiate in good faith but remains prepared for escalated measures if necessary.
Government health secretary James Murray praised the development, calling it “positive and welcome” for patients. He noted that while resident doctors have received a 28.9% pay rise over the past three years, further increases this year are not feasible due to financial constraints.
NHS England’s chief medical director, Prof Frankie Swords, highlighted the challenges posed by the strike coinciding with the World Cup and summer, which could have strained healthcare services. However, the deal’s finalization ensures stability for both medical staff and patients.”