A word of advice: try not to fall sick this week. Nurses in about a quarter of hospitals and community teams in England, including four in London, are walking out again in a long-running dispute over pay. Tomorrow, ambulance staff in England and Wales will walk out too
The impact of the industrial action by nurses on patients has been immediate. Last week’s strike saw roughly 1,400 procedures and operations cancelled. Imperial College Trust warned patients that their treatment could take six weeks to reschedule.
The Government’s strategy appears to be clear: it must hold the line on public sector pay at all costs. Yet in doing so it risks not only a prolonged battle with nurses, but patient health. And it cannot be sure of victory.
In a recent YouGov poll, 64 per cent of respondents said they supported the nurses’ strike. People are, of course, worried about the impact on health services. At the same time, the public respect what nurses do, recognise the sacrifices they made during the Covid-19 pandemic and understand that the salaries many earn are simply not enough to live on.
The Health Secretary, Steve Barclay, has reportedly floated the idea of granting nurses a one-off lump sum — a proposal first argued for by Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham in these pages. That could have formed the basis of a proper negotiation. It was instead dismissed by No 10.
The Royal College of Nursing has made clear that it is prepared to compromise. The Government must show similar willing, come to the table, and do so with something better. Flexibility is not a vice.
Act fast on gig tragedy
Two people attended a concert on Thursday evening — one a fan and the other a security guard — and never came home. Gaby Hutchinson, 23, who was working at the O2 Brixton Academy on Thursday, died on Monday following the crush. His death follows that of Rebecca Ikumelo, 33, a mother of two.
The shock and grief for their families and friends will be unimaginable. Questions are now being asked about how such a sequence of events could ever have been allowed to take place.
It is therefore vital that the investigation is carried out quickly, to ascertain what led to these tragic deaths and how we can be sure of no repeat. If there were security errors, they must be brought to light.
An online page for the submission of photos, videos and information has been created by the police. With thousands of witnesses, we urge anyone with evidence that could assist with the inquiry to come forward.
Much too young
Through his voice, music and lyrics, Terry Hall — who has passed away at the age of 63 — meant something to millions of people. The Specials were not only known for their ska and rocksteady style, but also for giving a voice to those who felt isolated during a tumultuous period in modern British history.
His songs resonate today as much as they did 40 years ago: a testament not only to today’s times, but the longevity of his art. Terry will be missed by fans the world over.
