Starmer issues new ultimatum as he hits out at striking doctors

Politics
31 Mar 2026 • 6:18 AM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

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  • The British Medical Association (BMA) has announced a six-day strike by resident doctors from 7 to 13 April, immediately following the Easter weekend.
  • This action follows the BMA's rejection of a pay offer of up to 7.1 per cent, with doctors demanding pay be restored to 2008 levels, representing a 26 per cent increase.
  • Sir Keir Starmer criticised the BMA's decision as 'reckless' and issued a 48-hour deadline for the strikes to be called off, warning of damage to the NHS.
  • The Prime Minister reportedly threatened to withdraw an offer of thousands of additional NHS training posts if the strikes are not cancelled within the 48-hour timeframe.
  • Dr Jack Fletcher, chair of the BMA resident doctor committee, accused the government of 'moving the goalposts' and stated that any deadline disappears with a credible offer.

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