Scrapping anti-strike laws could endanger lives as NHS workers gain more power to walk out, experts warn

Risk to Patient Safety

Experts caution that scrapping anti-strike laws could lead to empty A&E departments, putting patients at risk.

Concerns Over Safe Staffing

Shadow Health Secretary Victoria Atkins highlights potential consequences such as cancelled urgent appointments and compromised emergency care due to staffing issues.

Abandoning Minimum Service Levels

The new Employment Rights Bill is set to abandon laws that required unions to maintain a minimum level of service, raising fears of strikes across various sectors including healthcare, schools, and transportation.

Expert Warnings

Cancer specialist Professor Karol Sikora warns that the move could seriously harm the sickest patients and result in empty A&E departments.

Government Response

The proposals, spearheaded by Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner and Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds, aim to address public service disruptions caused by strikes, according to a government spokesperson.