Victoria Atkins Calls Junior Doctors 'Doctors in Training'
Minister Slammed on Social Media
Health Secretary Victoria Atkins has been criticized on social media after referring to junior doctors as "doctors in training." The comments, made during a speech at the Conservative Party conference, have been branded as "insulting" and "disrespectful." Atkins' remarks come at a time of heightened tensions between the government and the British Medical Association (BMA), which represents junior doctors in England.
Strikes Loom
The BMA has announced plans for a series of strikes in December and January, in protest at the government's proposed contract changes. Atkins has warned that the strikes will come at a "most challenging time" for the health service, which is already facing pressure from the COVID-19 pandemic.
Peace Process Comparison
In her speech, Atkins compared the talks with junior doctors to a "peace process," saying that they needed to be conducted away from the "glare of the media." However, her comments have been met with skepticism from the BMA, which has accused the government of trying to "divide and conquer" the medical profession.
Government-BMA Conflict Escalates
Atkins' remarks have further escalated tensions between the government and the BMA, which has described them as "a deliberate attempt to provoke conflict." The BMA has accused the government of failing to listen to the concerns of junior doctors, and has said that the planned strikes are a "last resort."
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