20.06.12
Most GP practices not joining industrial action
Members of the BMA are taking industrial action for the first time since 1975 tomorrow (Thursday) in opposition to the Government’s pension reform, but the number on strike may be less than initially planned.
Although 79% of BMA members voted for a strike, it seems not all of these doctors will actually take action. A survey of practices by Pulse magazine suggested that only 22% were planning to restrict routine care.
All emergency and urgent care will still be provided and the BMA has reiterated that patient safety will be given primary priority. All GP surgeries will be open as usual, but some will provide a reduced service.
Doctors are taking action against changes to their pensions which would see the retirement age raised to 68 and pension contributions increased for the same final amount.
Dr Hamish Meldrum, chairman of the BMA said: “Patient safety is our absolute priority. We have been clear throughout that any emergency care – or other care urgently needed by patients – will be provided. We are undertaking this action with extreme reluctance.”
Jon Skewes, director of employment relations and development at the RCM, said: “This is legitimate action by our BMA medical colleagues and we respect their decision. We are advising our members to work as normal but not to undertake work that would undermine the BMA action.”
Lansley wrote to the BMA saying: “The BMA say doctors feel that changes to their pension scheme are unfair and unnecessary. This suggests that they do not feel any change to their pensions arrangements are justified – but change is necessary and our proposals are fair.
“If doctors’ contribution rates were to remain unchanged then a nurse earning £30,000 a year would see their take home pay fall by around £100 per month simply to cover the shortfall.
“In seeking a more generous deal for doctors, they are seeking a more unfair deal for NHS staff overall.”
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