Could the consultants’ strike be the straw that breaks the government’s back?

Last week more than 20 000 consultants in England voted for industrial action over pay, with a huge 71% turnout and 86% voting in favour.1 During a two day walkout planned for 20 and 21 July consultants will offer only “Christmas Day cover,” meaning that most routine and elective services will be cancelled but full emergency cover will remain in place.Uncharted watersThe huge mandate for action marks a significant moment, as consultants have taken industrial action only twice in English history.The BMA estimates that consultants in England have seen their take home pay cut by 35% since 2008-09. The basic salary for consultants in England is £88 364 to £119 133 a year, depending on length of service.2 In a 40 hour working week this equates to a starting hourly pay of £42.48 before tax.The BMA’s Consultants Committee chair, Vishal Sharma, said, “All consultants are asking for is fairness. Newly…
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