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Should a non-strike rule apply to UK emergency staff?
Thousands of UK emergency workers are preparing to walk off the job, just days before Christmas
Thousands of UK Ambulance workers are preparing to go on strike, just days before Christmas, on December 21.
All over a pay dispute, 25,000 emergency staff are expected to walk off the job.
Hospital bosses are warning the strikes will put lives at risk and make wait times significantly longer.
“Our priority is to ensure emergency services continue to operate for those who need it.
STEVE BARCLAY, Health Secretary
People should continue to use NHS 111 online for urgent healthcare advice and call 999 if it is a life-threatening emergency.”
UK PM Rishi Sunak was pressed about the potentially fatal outcome, but Downing Street says it’s important not to ‘speculate.’
“Our focus now is on mitigating any potential detrimental impact these strikes could have.”
UK Prime minister’s office
Speaking on behalf of the workers, the health Union says the Government needs to start “genuine conversations about pay.”
“The Government will only have itself to blame if there are strikes in the NHS before Christmas.
Sara Gorton, head of health at Unison
“Ambulance staff don’t want to inconvenience anyone but ministers are refusing to do the one thing that could prevent disruption — start genuine talks about pay.”
“Patients’ lives are already at risk but this government is sitting on the sidelines.
SHAron graham, Unite general secretary
“Fail to act now to avert these strikes and the blame will rest firmly at the Government’s door.”
