JUNIOR doctors begin the second day of their pre-election strike today — despite fears the walkout is an “own goal”. Opponents say the five-day protest achieves nothing as ministers cannot negotiate and it will only frustrate whichever party wins power. 1 Junior doctors have kicked off their second day of pre-election strikes Credit: PA British Medical Association doctors have downed tools until Tuesday, with the 11th strike bringing the total to 44 days of industrial action since March last year.
Tory Health Secretary Victoria Atkins branded the timing irresponsible and warned it will harm patients, while Labour counterpart Wes Streeting urged the BMA to call off the strike. One BMA source said: “I cannot understand what the strike is hoping to achieve. “There is no government to negotiate with.
” Another added: “Strategically, it’s the wrong decision, like an own goal. “They should call off this strike, agree to meet the new ministerial team and see if they can salvage a deal.” Strike leaders have welcomed the prospect of negotiating with Labour over pay and said the party appears to have “a willingness to try”.
Labour boss Sir Keir Starmer said on Thursday: “What we will do is ensure on day one we start the discussion.” Most read in Health 'MAJOR ERRORS' Argentinian ref and VAR at centre of Scots penalty storm AXED from Euro 2024 VIEW FROM ABOVE Inside Rangers' stadium work as unique drone footage shows latest updates VILE THEFT Ex STV presenter .
