Novara Live Keir Starmer Says “Don’t Abandon Patients” As Doctor Five-Day Strikes Begin
13 snips
Dec 17, 2025 
Dr. Thomas Cheliotis-James, Deputy Chair of the BMA Resident Doctors' Committee, shares insights on the striking junior doctors' pay and the erosion of training posts since 2008. He emphasizes the need for better funding and trust in negotiations. Jamie Driscoll, former Labour mayor turned Green Party member, discusses his political shift and how the Greens can appeal to disillusioned voters by showcasing economic competence. The conversation touches on pressing political tensions and the growing influence of unions within Labour.
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Doctors Strike Over Jobs And Pay
- Resident doctors strike over two linked problems: severe underfunding of training posts and real-terms pay erosion since 2008.
- Thomas Cheliotis-James warns both issues together risk patient care and workforce retention if unresolved.
Training Posts Offer Has No Net Gain
- The alleged offer of 4,000 training posts repurposes local posts rather than creating net new roles.
- The BMA sought data on how many UK grads are blocked from training but said the government didn't provide it.
Prioritise Workforce Investment
- Invest in staff to improve NHS capacity and care quality rather than only reallocating existing resources.
- Thomas Cheliotis-James suggests workforce investment is one of the surest ways to reduce waits and improve services.