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Badenoch proposes strike ban for NHS doctors

The Conservative leader plans legislation to restrict strike actions by NHS doctors.

July 27, 2025 at 03:49 PM

Badenoch says Conservatives would ban strikes by NHS doctors

The Conservatives plan to restrict strike actions by NHS doctors amid ongoing disputes.

Badenoch proposes banning strikes by NHS doctors

The UK Conservative Party, led by Kemi Badenoch, announced a proposal to ban strikes by NHS doctors if they return to power. This comes as thousands of resident doctors are currently on a five-day strike linked to unresolved pay disputes with the government. The British Medical Association (BMA) has criticized the proposal as desperate, citing years of neglect towards the NHS. Badenoch argues that the legislation, which would impose restrictions similar to those for police and military personnel, is necessary to maintain public safety and manage taxpayer funds. Despite reports claiming a 5.4% pay rise this year, the BMA insists real wages have declined significantly since 2008 due to inflation, highlighting the need for a 26% pay increase to counteract this loss.

Key Takeaways

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The Conservative Party aims to legislate against NHS strikes if elected.

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Thousands of resident doctors have initiated a five-day strike for better pay.

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Badenoch's plan aligns NHS strikes with those of police and military.

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The BMA argues current wage increases do not sufficiently address inflation loss.

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Public support may hinge on perceptions of healthcare accessibility.

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International comparisons to other countries show varied responses to healthcare strikes.

"That process is there day and night throughout industrial action."

Dr Dolphin emphasizes the existing protocols during strikes to protect emergency services.

"Threatening to ban strike action is not the right response for a modern democracy."

Dr Dolphin critiques Badenoch's proposal, advocating for the right to strike as essential.

"We are making an offer in the national interest."

Badenoch justifies the ban under the premise of public and taxpayer safety.

"Doctors do incredibly important work. Medicine is a vocation, not just a job."

Badenoch acknowledges the key role of doctors while arguing for pay and strike limits.

Badenoch's proposal to ban strikes could resonate with certain segments of the public who prioritize uninterrupted healthcare. However, it also reflects a worrying trend toward limiting workers' rights in favor of government control. The backlash from the medical community suggests deep rifts remain in the relationship between the government and healthcare workers. As calls for fair wages and working conditions grow, the effectiveness of such a ban in ensuring NHS efficiency is questionable. Ultimately, this could lead to heightened tensions and further strikes, weakening public trust in health policies that seem misaligned with the concerns of frontline professionals.