UK doctors go on five-day strike from today

LONDON: Around 50,000 resident doctors in UK are going on a five-day strike from Friday, sparking fears of disruptions in emergency departments.

The British Medical Association (BMA) called the strike after talks with NHS leaders over salary demands collapsed.

The government had announced a 5.4 per cent  pay raise for doctors. However, the BMA rejected the offer, saying it failed to address past wage freezes. The union is demanding a 29.2 per cent increase to match pay levels from 2008. Over 26,000 doctors supported the strike in a recent vote.

The BMA criticised the government for not doing enough to prevent the walkout. Talks ended on Tuesday without resolution.

Trade deal clears way for BOJ to tiptoe back to rate hikes

Prime Minister Keir Starmer urged doctors to reconsider, warning that the strike would harm both the NHS and the public. In an article for The Times, he accused the BMA of acting hastily.

Health Secretary Wes Streeting echoed the concern, saying the situation was regrettable. He insisted the pay offer was the highest in the public sector but remained open to discussions about working conditions.

The NHS expects 60,000 appointments in London alone to be affected. Hospitals will try to avoid delays, but routine procedures might be postponed. Senior doctors will cover emergency duties.

The BMA has warned of patient safety risks due to staff shortages.