Mr. Barclay will petition the courts to declare the forthcoming strike action illegal, but the Royal College of Nursing (RCN) characterized the move as an attempt by a “bullying government” to silence nurses.
Health Secretary Steve Barclay has stated that he will “pursue legal action” in response to the impending strike action by the Royal College of Nursing.
Members of the Royal College of Nursing (RCN) employed by the NHS in England are planning to engage in 48 hours of industrial action during the May bank holiday.
They are scheduled to walk out from 8 pm on 30 April, or the start of a night shift, until 8 pm on 2 May, or the start of a night shift.
First-time nurse walkouts will occur in emergency departments, intensive care units, and cancer clinics.
In a letter to Health Secretary Steve Barclay, NHS leaders inquired about the legality of the strike action before the mandate expires in May.
Mr. Barclay issued the following statement: “Following a request from NHS Employers, I have regrettably given notice of my intention to pursue legal action to urge the courts to declare the Royal College of Nursing’s planned strike action from 30 April to 2 May unlawful.
I must act because the government supports strike freedom, but industrial action must be legal.
“Strike action without agreed-upon national exemptions, including for emergency and cancer care, will also endanger patient safety.”
Mr. Barclay cautioned nurses that participation in the action could jeopardize their careers.
“This legal action also seeks to protect nurses who might otherwise be asked to participate in illegal activity, which could jeopardize their professional registration and violate the nursing code of conduct,” he explained.
Pat Cullen, general secretary and chief executive of the RCN, described the action as “blatantly political.”
The government will not silence nurses in this manner, according to a statement.
We do not doubt that court arguments should only pertain to May 2 and not April 30 and May 1.
“The government is now desperate to silence nurses instead of addressing the issue properly.” We would rather be in the negotiation chamber than in court.”
The RCN added in a statement that “bullying nurses and dragging us through the highest courts would not reflect well on the government.
It would demonstrate complete contempt for nursing personnel.
After RCN-represented English nurses rejected a 5% salary increase last week, Mr. Barclay announced his intention to sue.
Despite the recommendation of union leaders to accept the offer, it was denied.
A leader of the NHS warned that escalating action would “endanger patient safety.”
