British Medical Association

The British Medical Association (BMA) is a professional association and trade union representing doctors in the United Kingdom. It is currently newsworthy due to ongoing strike action by resident doctors (formerly known as junior doctors) in England. These doctors, represented by the BMA, are striking for five days in December 2025 over a long-running dispute regarding pay and working conditions. They are seeking a return of salaries to 2008-2009 levels, which have been eroded by inflation. The strikes have drawn criticism from Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who described them as "beyond belief" and irresponsible given the current flu crisis facing the NHS. Ministers have made fresh offers to the BMA in an attempt to avert the strikes. The BMA is also involved in other public health initiatives, such as advocating for clear targets on walking and cycling in England. The chair of the BMA has denied accusations that he is using the strikes to advance his own political career.