UK Labour Party leader Sir Keir Starmer has warned that any doctors’ strike during the ongoing flu outbreak would be “reckless,” stressing the need to prioritise patient safety and protect public health at a critical time for the National Health Service (NHS).
Starmer made the remarks amid growing concerns over pressure on hospitals and healthcare workers as flu cases continue to rise across the country. He acknowledged the challenges facing doctors and NHS staff but cautioned that industrial action during a public health crisis could put lives at risk.
“At a time when the NHS is under severe strain and patients are relying on frontline workers, a doctors’ strike during a flu outbreak would be reckless,” Starmer said. “The focus must be on keeping people safe and ensuring that vital services remain available.”
The Labour leader called on the government and medical unions to urgently return to negotiations to resolve disputes over pay, working conditions, and staffing levels. He emphasized that dialogue, not disruption, is the best path to addressing long-standing issues within the health sector.
Starmer also reiterated Labour’s commitment to strengthening the NHS, improving workforce conditions, and investing in healthcare infrastructure to reduce the likelihood of future disputes.