31.05.12
BMA names ‘day of action’ against pension reform
Doctors will take part in industrial action short of a strike over changes to NHS pensions, after a large majority of BMA members voted in favour.
It has been almost 40 years since doctors have taken such action.
On June 21, BMA members will postpone non-urgent care, such as elective operations. Emergency care will still be provided and the BMA is to run a publicity campaign alerting patients to what the action will involve.
Over 50% of eligible doctors voted in the ballot, with 79% prepared to take industrial action short of a strike and 63% prepared to strike.
Dr Hamish Meldrum, chairman of council at the BMA, said: “We are taking this step very reluctantly, and would far prefer to negotiate for a fairer solution.
“But this clear mandate for action – on a very high turnout – reflects just how let down doctors feel by the Government’s unwillingness to find a fairer approach to the latest pension changes and its refusal to acknowledge the major reforms of 2008 that made the NHS scheme sustainable in the long term. .
“We are not seeking preferential treatment but fair treatment. The Government’s wholesale changes to an already reformed NHS pension scheme cannot be justified.”
Dr Brian Keighley, chairman of the BMA inScotland, added that they “have been left with no option but to go forward with this action”.
Health secretary Andrew Lansley said: “The public will not understand or sympathise with the BMA. People know that pension reform is needed as people live longer and to be fair in future for everyone.”
Dean Royles, director of NHS Employers, said: “We are deeply disappointed with the announcement from the BMA about their decision to take industrial action. Doctors know that any industrial action will impact on care and cause distress and disruption to patients and undermine trust and confidence in the medical profession.
“We know that doctors are anxious about changes to their pensions. But no one wants to see patients dragged into the argument. Industrial action could potentially mean delays to treatment.”
Tell us what you think – have your say below, or email us directly at [email protected]