LONDON: British health secretary Steve Barclay said today he was open to talks with the nurses’ union RCN, but highlighted the merits of a pay rise that was set out by the government in July.
Responding to news that nurses are set to carry out their biggest strike action, Barclay emphasised that a previously announced pay rise of at least £1,400 (US$1,695.26) will mean a newly qualified nurse will typically earn over £31,000 a year.
“The National Health Service has tried and tested plans in place to minimise disruption and ensure emergency services continue to operate, but inevitably strike action will have an impact on services,” he said on Twitter.