BMA faces threat of legal action after official calls for other unions to join junior doctors' strike
Dr Yannis Gourtsoyannis calls for 'activists and trade unionists' across country to 'turn up on the days of action'
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Britain’s doctors union was last night facing the threat of legal action after one of its senior officials called on other union members to join them on the picket lines when they go on strike next week.
In an article on the British Medical Association’s website Dr Yannis Gourtsoyannis, a Member of BMA’s Junior Doctors Committee, called for “activists and trade unionists” across the country to “turn up on the days of action” and support junior doctors picketing major hospitals.
Under the Trade Union and Labour Relations Act such secondary picketing by union members not directly involved in the dispute is illegal.
“We invite you to come out and display your visible support for us on the days of action,” Dr Gourtsoyannis wrote.
“A victory for the Junior Doctors would signify the first real crack in the entire edifice of austerity in the UK.”
A link to the article was tweeted out from the main BMA Twitter account. The call has elicited a furious response from NHS employers who have now written to the BMA warning that such a move would be illegal.
“Dr Gourtsoyannis is clearly addressing his comments to staff who have not been balloted and are not a party to this trade dispute," said Danny Mortimer, Chief Executive of NHS Employers.
“His comments on picketing are a clear breach of the Trade Union and Labour Relations Act and also contrary to the guidance which the BMA has itself published on its own website.”
He added: “I would urge you to now ensure that this statement from Dr Gourtsoyannis is removed immediately from your website.”
A BMA Spokesperson said: “It is perfectly legitimate to encourage the public to show visible support for the BMA’s lawful day of industrial activity. The BMA does not and has not endorsed any form of illegal activity.”
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments