Steve Barclay accuses NHS staff of planning ‘politically timed’ strikes

Health secretary sets out proposals to extend minimum cover laws as 48-hour strike begins in England

The health secretary has accused NHS staff in England of planning politically timed" industrial action as he outlined proposals to extend strike laws to ensure doctors and nurses in hospitals provide a minimum level of cover.

As consultants began another 48-hour strike on Tuesday as part of a row over pay, one of their representatives warned Steve Barclay that the plans - which are unlikely to come into force until the new year - would only save up problems for later".