Unions privately voice misgivings over BMA pay demands and doctors’ strikes

Senior figures express concerns over medical union’s refusal of pay rise that is higher than offer to other NHS staff

Trade unions have privately expressed qualms about the forthcoming doctors’ strikes, expressing frustration at the conduct of the talks and the demands of the British Medical Association.

The BMA is pushing for a pay rise higher than the 3.5% offered to doctors by the government, with strikes planned for next week.