Resident doctors begin six-day strike amid pay and workforce dispute

Thousands of resident doctors in England have commenced a six-day strike from 7 am on Tuesday, April 7, in a major escalation of a long-running dispute with the government over pay, training and working conditions. The walkout is scheduled to run until 7 am on April 13 and marks one of the longest periods of industrial action by doctors in recent years. 

The British Medical Association (BMA), representing the doctors, rejected a government offer that included pay increases and workforce commitments, saying it fell short of addressing real terms pay erosion and long-term career progression concerns. The government said its proposal represented significant pay rises and blamed the union for choosing strike action despite the offer. 

Health Secretary Wes Streeting criticised the ongoing action, saying it threatens recent improvements in NHS services and waiting times and has cost the health service billions. The BMA maintains that doctors had no credible alternative after talks stalled. 

Patients have been advised to attend appointments unless otherwise informed, while health leaders warn the walkout will put additional pressure on already stretched services.

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