STORY
Resident doctors in England have voted overwhelmingly to press ahead with a five day strike beginning on 17 December 2025, after rejecting the Government’s latest offer aimed at ending their long running dispute over pay, training and working conditions. The ballot showed a large majority against the proposal, with turnout significantly higher than in previous consultations. The decision comes as the NHS faces severe winter pressures, with hospitals already stretched by an intense seasonal flu wave.
The walkout has drawn sharp criticism from the Prime Minister in recent days. Keir Starmer, the Prime Minister, said that the prospect of industrial action during what he described as one of the most challenging periods the health service has faced in years was deeply concerning, urging doctors to reconsider and accept the deal on the table. Wes Streeting, the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, echoed that sentiment, warning that the timing of the strike could cause serious disruption to patient care and undermine efforts to stabilise services during the winter surge.
Resident doctors’ representatives insist the Government’s offer fails to address longstanding concerns about real terms pay erosion and career progression, and argue that the Government’s comments amount to unfair pressure rather than meaningful negotiation. NHS leaders are now preparing for significant operational strain next week, with trusts activating contingency plans to protect urgent and emergency care as the strike approaches.