Why did doctors in England go on strike?

Doctors in England went on strike due to ongoing disputes over pay and concerns about training and job security.

What was the outcome of the BMA's strike?

The BMA strike concluded after five days, with doctors returning to work. However, pay negotiations between the BMA and the government are ongoing.

What are the long-term impacts of the doctors' strike?

Health experts warn that the impact of the strike will be felt into the new year and beyond, affecting NHS services.

Home / Health / England Doctors End Strike Amid Pay Dispute

England Doctors End Strike Amid Pay Dispute

22 Dec, 2025

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Summary

Doctors returned to work after a five-day strike over pay.
BMA members rejected a new government offer concerning training and job security.
The doctors' union stated pay is still a fifth lower than in 2008.

England Doctors End Strike Amid Pay Dispute

Doctors in England have concluded a five-day strike action over unresolved pay disputes, returning to their duties on Monday. This industrial action took place amidst a surge in flu cases and followed unsuccessful last-minute negotiations between the British Medical Association (BMA) and the government.

BMA members overwhelmingly rejected a recent government proposal aimed at addressing concerns related to training and job security. The union stated that resident doctors' pay has effectively decreased by a fifth compared to 2008 levels due to inflation, despite receiving an average 5.4% rise this year.

Health experts have cautioned that the consequences of this strike will likely persist into the new year and beyond. Meanwhile, residential doctors in Scotland are scheduled to commence their own national walkout from January 13 to January 17.