UPDATE: In a heated escalation, Health Secretary Wes Streeting has accused the British Medical Association’s top GP, Dr. Katie Bramall, of lying and being “deeply unprofessional” as tensions rise over NHS GP contract negotiations. This urgent confrontation comes just hours after Streeting announced he would strip the BMA of its role as the sole negotiator for the NHS GP contract, citing an inability to engage “in good faith.”
In a letter sent to family doctors earlier today, Streeting declared that the BMA has made it “impossible” to foster a constructive dialogue regarding contractual changes set to take effect in 2026. He expressed frustration over the BMA’s opposition to new online booking systems, which he claims were previously agreed upon in February 2025.
Streeting stated, “This speech was not just deeply unprofessional; it was misleading. The BMA agreed to these contract changes in February 2025, and any suggestions to the contrary are factually incorrect.” His comments come after Dr. Bramall labeled the government as “traitors” to the profession, accusing officials of “disingenuousness” and “gaslighting.”
The government’s decision to bypass the BMA and consult other organizations—including the Royal College of GPs, Healthwatch England, and the NHS Confederation—marks a significant shift in how NHS contract negotiations will proceed. Streeting aims to incorporate a broader range of voices in these discussions, including patient perspectives.
Meanwhile, Dr. David Wrigley, deputy chair of the BMA’s GP Committee, expressed outrage on social media, stating, “This is the latest move by a Labour Government and shows their views of and approach to a trade union. It’s shocking and an attempt to discredit us.” Wrigley further noted a widespread sense of dismay among GPs regarding the government’s actions.
The BMA has historically been the primary negotiating body for NHS GP contracts since the health service’s inception. However, Streeting’s recent measures signal a growing divide between the government and the union, which has been under increasing scrutiny for its handling of negotiations.
Dr. Bramall has indicated the BMA’s willingness to collaborate with the government, stating, “We have repeatedly sought to work with the Government all year to make their aspirations a safe success.” However, she also criticized the government for what she called relentless attacks on the integrity of the profession.
As the conflict intensifies, the implications for NHS services and GP practices could be profound. Streeting’s decision to communicate directly with GPs and circumvent the BMA reflects a broader strategy that could reshape how healthcare professionals engage with government policies.
Moving forward, all eyes will be on both the government and the BMA as they navigate this contentious landscape. The next steps could determine not only the future of GP contracts but also the dynamics of the relationship between healthcare professionals and the government.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.
