JUNIOR doctors who are members of the British Medical Association (BMA) stood in protest outside Basildon Hospital today (Monday, 13 March) – joining thousands across the country who have just started a three day walk-out over pay - the longest-ever period of industrial action by junior doctors.

The BMA said newly qualified medics make £14.09 an hour, less than a barista in a coffee shop, adding that junior doctors in England will have suffered a 26% real-terms pay cut since 2008/09.

Doctors protesting at Basildon Hospital this morning.

A spokesperson for the BMA added: "Pret a Manger has announced it will pay up to £14.10 per hour. A junior doctor makes just £14.09.

"Thanks to this government you can make more serving coffee than saving patients. This week junior doctors will take strike action so they are paid what they are worth."