Resident doctors in England have re-entered a pay dispute with the Government, citing key provisions of last year’s agreements that have not been upheld. The Review Body on Doctors' and Dentists' Remuneration (DDRB), which annually advises government on doctors’ pay, is late in publishing this year’s recommendation. The Government’s commitments to resolve pay disputes with the BMA include these recommendations being published by the start of the financial year, which began 6 April 2025. 

The BMA resident doctors committee (RDC) has voted in favour of going back into dispute, the first step before potentially balloting members for industrial action. 

Co-chairs of RDC, Dr Melissa Ryan and Dr Ross Nieuwoudt, said:  

“It is very disappointing to be in this position. We had hoped that the pay deal last year marked the start of a new era of cooperation between the Government and doctors in securing a path to pay restoration through mutual trust and negotiation. Wes Streeting has made it clear that he wants to avoid the mistakes of the previous government’s intransigent approach, and we welcome that.  

“However, cooperation requires mutual trust. The failure to keep to agreed timetables is an ominous sign that that trust is already eroding. We have no desire to move towards industrial action and the impact on patient care that will inevitably result. So right here, right now, let’s head this off at the pass.  

“Dispute does not need to mean discord, and we are keen to get around the table. We’re asking Wes Streeting to come forward with a plan to put us back on the road to pay restoration. The first step is publishing the DDRB’s recommendation. The second will be ensuring that the Government’s actual offer is sufficient.”  

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.