Junior doctors join picket line outside Manchester Royal Infirmary

The transcript discusses the ongoing NHS strike due to unresolved pay restoration issues for doctors. Despite negotiations from October to December, the government offered a 3% pay increase, which is a real-term pay cut. This has led to the longest NHS strike, with doctors demanding fair pay to retain staff and improve services. The public and patients support the strike, understanding the low wages doctors receive for life-saving work. The transcript highlights the need for action to ensure a decent service for patients.

What was the government's offer to doctors, and why was it considered inadequate?

• A 2% increase, which was only for senior doctors.

• A 10% increase, but only for new doctors.

• A 3% increase, not equally spread, leading to a real terms pay cut.

• A 5% increase, which was not enough to cover inflation.

How much has doctors' pay decreased in real terms since 2008?

• 26%

• 15%

• 30%

• 20%

What is one of the main reasons doctors are taking strike action?

• To protest against new training requirements.

• To request better office facilities.

• To improve patient care by addressing staffing and pay issues.

• To demand more vacation days.

How do patients generally feel about the doctors' strike?

• They are unaware of the strike.

• They are supportive and shocked by doctors' low pay.

• They are indifferent to the strike.

• They are mostly unsupportive and frustrated.

What hourly wage do doctors believe is fair for their work?

• £10 per hour

• £15 per hour

• £20 per hour and upwards

• £25 per hour