Responding to today's announcement that the Government will repeal the Strikes Act 2023, Prof Phil Banfield, chair of BMA council, said:​

“The repeal of this legislation has been a long hard fight and we welcome its demise. The Minimum Services Level law was a cynical attempt to respond to workers’ genuine concerns around their pay and conditions by suppressing them rather than working with them. Such draconian measures quite rightly belong in the dustbin of legislative history.

“The new Government has recognised that it costs far less to negotiate a settlement with NHS workers than it does to try and fight them. The way to a better health service is not through suppressing its workers in the name of “safety” but by collaborating with them to make sure that we have an NHS that is safe and effective every day. In recent weeks we have seen the beginnings of a new approach with a credible offer on pay finally presented to junior doctors, the first step in restoring the value of doctors’ skills and expertise. Now we look urgently for a new GP contract - fit for purpose - to be negotiated in this Parliamentary term.”

Notes to editors

The BMA is a professional association and trade union representing and negotiating on behalf of all doctors in the UK. A leading voice advocating for outstanding health care and a healthy population. An association providing members with excellent individual services and support throughout their lives.