- Resident doctors in the UK went on strike on Wednesday following the British Medical Association's (BMA) rejection of a new government offer.
- Health Secretary Wes Streeting said the NHS is “coping” during the strike but expressed concern about the post-strike recovery period, particularly as it coincides with the NHS's busiest time.
- Doctors are scheduled to return to work on Monday, with Streeting indicating a desire to end the dispute and resume negotiations with the BMA in the new year.
- Streeting criticised the BMA's position as “hardline and uncompromising” and dismissed rumours of a leadership challenge against Sir Keir Starmer.
- He also voiced discomfort with current taxation levels and suggested a deeper trading relationship with the EU, without freedom of movement, as a way to boost economic growth.
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