Resident Doctors Announce Pre-Christmas Strike for Pay Justice

England's resident doctors plan a five-day strike from December 17, highlighting struggles for fair pay against inflation. Despite offers, the British Medical Association demands a significant pay rise to counter years of salary erosion. Previous strikes continue as disputes with the government remain unresolved.

Resident doctors across England are set to carry out a five-day strike starting December 17, aiming to pressure the government over unresolved pay disputes.

The British Medical Association, advocating for the doctors, highlights that the government's 5.4% pay offer falls short in addressing years of inflation-driven salary erosion. Despite this, government officials maintain the offer is fair within the current economic constraints.

Earlier, the Labour government had managed a 22% pay increase for doctors, an attempt to stabilize the National Health Service. The BMA seeks a 29% rise this year, demanding wage restoration to 2008 levels. Health Minister Wes Streeting cited financial limitations as a barrier to further pay increases, while the government has yet to respond to the latest strike action.

(With inputs from agencies.)