Resident doctors in England have voted in favour of strike action once again, marking the latest development in a prolonged dispute over pay.

Despite receiving a 5.4% pay rise this financial year—on top of a cumulative 22% increase over the past two years—the British Medical Association (BMA) argues that doctors’ wages remain around 20% lower in real terms compared to 2008. The union is calling for full “pay restoration.”

The strike mandate could see nearly 48,000 resident doctors take part in future walkouts. However, the BMA has indicated it will pursue renewed negotiations with the government before confirming any strike dates.

While government ministers have expressed willingness to discuss working conditions, they have consistently ruled out reopening talks on pay.

According to the BMA, 90% of members who voted supported industrial action, with a turnout of 55%.

In a joint statement, Ross Nieuwoudt and Melissa Ryan, co-chairs of the BMA’s junior doctors committee, said there is still an opportunity to avoid strikes. “Our pay may have declined, but our will to fight remains strong. All we need is a credible pay offer and nobody needs to strike,” they said.

The union’s new mandate allows for potential industrial action over the next six months, through to January 2026.