Jeremy Hunt and the BMA to return to the negotiation table over controversial new junior doctors contract

The government and junior doctors are attempting to resolve a dispute over a new contract, with a five-day truce in place. The government is committed to a seven-day NHS, but strikes have caused significant disruptions. Talks are set to resume, focusing on unsocial hours and pay, but broader issues remain. A resolution is hoped for, but the government plans to impose the contract in August if no agreement is reached.

What is the government's commitment regarding the NHS?

• To reduce NHS funding

• To deliver a seven-day NHS

• To privatize the NHS

• To limit NHS services to weekdays

What has been the impact of the strikes over the new contract?

• Increased hospital funding

• Improved patient satisfaction

• 150,000 cancelled appointments and 37,000 missed operations

• More doctors joining the NHS

What does the British Medical Association want to discuss in the negotiations?

• A wider discussion on working hours and safeguards

• Only unsocial hours and Saturday pay

• Reducing doctors' salaries

• Increasing the number of holidays for doctors

What could happen if the government limits the talks to unsocial hours and Saturday pay?

• Doctors will receive a pay raise

• The British Medical Association might agree

• The government could walk away from negotiations

• The contract will be immediately implemented

What is the significance of the five-day truce?

• It allows doctors to take a vacation

• It ends the dispute permanently

• It offers a glimmer of hope for reaching a deal

• It guarantees a resolution to the dispute