Support for industrial action holds firm

The fourth period of industrial action for junior doctors in England has begun, with support from the public holding strong. A YouGov survey has found 59 per cent of people support industrial action, with junior doctors providing emergency cover, with 23 per cent opposed. A question as to whether doctors were right to take the action found a majority in favour, with findings similar to those in previous surveys carried out during other periods of industrial action. And more than five times the number of people thought the Government, rather than the BMA, was most to blame for the dispute — 48 per cent versus 9 per cent. This was a higher proportion than in a previous poll in early February. BMA junior doctors committee chair Johann Malawana has said that the Government must take responsibility for the crisis and, for the sake of patients, resume talks with doctors. He said: ‘By pursuing its current course, the Government risks alienating a generation of doctors. 'If it continues to ignore junior doctors’ concerns, at a time when their morale is already at rock-bottom, doctors may vote with their feet, which will clearly affect the long-term future of the NHS and the care it provides. ‘Responsibility for industrial action now lies entirely with the Government. It must start listening and resume negotiations on a properly funded junior doctors’ contract to protect the future of patient care and the NHS.’ Read the YouGov survey Find out mor...
Source: BMA News - Category: UK Health Source Type: news