Atkins vows to 'get around table' with striking doctors

HOPES of an end to months of NHS strikes were raised yesterday when the new Health Secretary vowed to sit down to talks with doctors.

- Hanna Geissler

Victoria Atkins described herself as "an optimist" in a recorded video shown at the NHS Providers annual conference in Liverpool.

Adopting what appeared to be a softer stance on negotiations than predecessor Steve Barclay, she promised to "take the long-term decisions that will build a brighter future for our NHS".

Ms Atkins added: "This is the approach I will take to industrial action.