LOCAL MP Karen Lumley has voiced her disappointment at seeing junior doctors goinng on strike last Tuesday (January 12).
Writing in her weekly newsletter, Mrs Lumley said: “I always believe talking is better than striking, which serves no purpose at all. I and the Secretary of State for Health, Jeremy Hunt, know junior doctors already work seven days a week, playing a vital role in our NHS and doing a fantastic job delivering excellent care for patients.
“The Government’s reforms are intended to improve patient safety and properly reward – not penalise – NHS staff, ensuring safer working hours and delivering a truly seven-day health service.
“I know that’s what doctors want too, so it is extremely disappointing that the British Medical Association chose to take industrial action which helps no-one.
“This is absolutely not a cost-cutting exercise and these changes will be cost neutral. No junior doctor working legal hours will have their pay cut and it is irresponsible of the BMA to claim otherwise. The Health Secretary has guaranteed that this new contract will not impose longer hours for junior doctors.”
The BMA is planning a further 48 hour stoppage next Tuesday, January 26. To view details of the Government’s offer to junior doctors, visit: www.nhsemployers.org/juniordoctors .
