Newscast Doctors Vote To Strike (Again)
13 snips
Dec 15, 2025 
Hugh Pym, BBC Health Editor, discusses the decision of doctors in England to strike over pay erosion, highlighting that their earnings remain significantly lower than in 2008. Chris Mason, BBC political editor, weighs in on government frustrations amidst rising flu pressures and the potential for prolonged disputes. Meanwhile, Katja Adler reports from Berlin, sharing insights on peace talks involving Ukraine, emphasizing the challenges of security guarantees and the need for unity among European leaders. The mix of healthcare and geopolitical tensions makes for a compelling discussion.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Ballot Shows Strong Support For Strike
- The BMA ballot showed 83% of resident doctors backed the strike on a 65% turnout.
- The government offer improved training and recruitment but did not include the pay rise doctors demand.
Pay Is The Core Unresolved Demand
- Pay remains the central unresolved issue because the government did not offer the doctors' demanded raise.
- Resident doctors want roughly another 20% to recoup long-term inflation losses back to 2008.
NHS Has Learned To Cope — At A Cost
- NHS trusts have improved strike contingency planning and now keep most planned work on schedule.
- But cancellations still occur and cover costs (locums/extra shifts) are roughly £250m over time.