No 10 outlines plan to crack down on NHS staff strikes

Rishi Sunak's government has revealed its plan to crack down on NHS strikes by forcing some doctors and nurses to work during future industrial action.

- ADAM FORREST

Health secretary Steve Barclay is proposing strict "minimum service level" regulations for urgent and emergency care in hospitals in a bid to stop disruption affecting patients.

It follows controversial anti-strike legislation passed in the summer - bitterly opposed by the unions - which gives ministers the power to impose minimum staffing across the public sector.

Mr Barclay said the introduction of regulations for the NHS "would provide a safety net for trusts and an assurance to the public that vital health services will be there when they need them".

But NHS Providers, the membership body for hospitals, said the plan "risks worsening industrial relations at a time when we need government and unions to get around the table and enter into talks".

"This legislation - as well as the consultation announced today doesn't address any of the issues underlying current strike action, including dissatisfaction with pay and working conditions," said the group's deputy chief Saffron Cordery.