Labour and Strikes
Health Secretary Victoria Atkins issued a warning that voting for Labour could lead to an increase in strike actions. She expressed concerns that under Sir Keir Starmer's leadership, unions would be granted more power to call for strikes, potentially causing more industrial unrest.
Union Powers and Public Impact
Atkins criticized the plans to give unions the authority to call strikes without the support of half of their members. She emphasized the importance of maintaining a balance between workers' rights and the public's ability to access essential services like transportation and healthcare without disruption.
Junior Doctors Strike
The Health Secretary condemned the decision of junior doctors to strike just days before the election, calling it "cynical." The British Medical Association's junior doctors committee cited a lack of a satisfactory offer in their ongoing dispute, demanding a significant pay increase.
Government's Healthcare Plans
In response to these concerns, the government revealed initiatives to alleviate pressure on GP services, including freeing up 20 million appointments by expanding treatments available at pharmacies. Additionally, plans are underway to modernize GP surgeries and establish community diagnostic centers to enhance healthcare accessibility.
