Dave Prentis joined striking junior doctors on the picket line at his local hospital in Barnet, north London, this morning to offer UNISON’s support and solidarity.
“UNISON stands behind the junior doctors as they stand up for their rights at work and for patient safety,” said general secretary Mr Prentis.
He added that the attack on doctors’ working conditions and pay “will unfortunately come as no surprise to student nurses on the receiving end of one of George Osborne’s most foolish cuts – the removal of the student nursing bursary.
“That is why these students will be offering their own support on the picket line this lunchtime.”
The strike by junior doctors in England is organised by the BMA and is over government proposals for a new employment contract which doctors feel does not protect patient safety, particularly when it comes to working hours.