College statement on result of junior doctor industrial ballot in Scotland

14 Jun 2023

The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow has today (Wednesday 14 June) urged talks to continue following a vote by junior doctors in Scotland to reject the Scottish Government’s pay offer.

Mike McKirdy, President of the College, said: “Junior doctors are at the very heart of the NHS and their knowledge, skills and professionalism play a critical role in the safe running of our health service. Put simply, the NHS could not provide high-quality patient care without them.

“The College remains deeply concerned that junior doctors, who are under intense work pressure, feel so undervalued that they see no other option than to take industrial action. The significant issues they – and other professionals throughout the NHS – face as a result of workforce shortages are well-known.

“Medical Royal Colleges are not involved in negotiations and as such, we will not comment on the specifics of each party’s position.”

Talks are expected to continue this week between BMA Scotland and Michael Matheson, Cabinet Secretary for NHS Recovery, Health and Social Care.

Mr McKirdy continued: “We urge all parties to continue engaging to find a constructive solution. We understand talks are set to continue, and with industrial action now potentially just a few weeks away, a resolution is urgently required to avert strike action.”

Category: Workforce