A petition supporting junior doctors who are considering strike action has gained the support of more than 40,000 people. This has been signed by many people, including many junior doctors of Asian origin.
The 'British Medical Association, Strike?' petition was set up three days ago to call for support for young medics who are concerned new Government contracts could affect pay levels and force them to work more unsocial hours. They have said that the contract changes, which are due to be enforced from August 2016, would result in "unsafe working hours and a pay cut estimated to be around 30%" due to the reclassification of what is considered a junior doctor's normal working week.
However, the Department of Health said the proposals offered junior doctors a better deal by "enhancing the quality and quantity of training opportunities for junior doctors" and giving a higher basic rate of pay "with a significant increase in basic salary".
