URGENT UPDATE: British Health Secretary Wes Streeting has launched a fierce attack on the British Medical Association’s (BMA) top GP, accusing them of lying and acting in a “deeply unprofessional” manner as tensions escalate between the government and the union.
In a letter addressed to family doctors on November 27, 2025, Streeting announced he is removing the BMA’s status as the sole negotiator for the NHS GP contract, claiming the union has made it “impossible” for him and his officials to engage in “good faith.” He will now consult other organizations for contractual changes starting next year.
This explosive conflict centers around the BMA’s resistance to new online booking systems. Streeting has expressed frustration with the BMA’s GP Committee, especially its leader, Dr. Katie Bramall, who accused the government of imposing unwanted measures. Recent leaked emails indicate that her team had previously agreed to these changes, contradicting her claims.
In her recent speech, Bramall labeled the government as “traitors” to the medical profession, accusing them of “disingenuousness” and “gaslighting.” Streeting countered in his letter, stating, “This speech was not just deeply unprofessional, but misleading. The BMA agreed to these contract changes in February 2025, and any contrary suggestions are factually incorrect.”
Streeting emphasized his commitment to a constructive relationship with the BMA until recently, expressing concern that the union’s representatives are obstructing honest dialogue. “Serious relationships with government demand a certain level of mutual respect and professionalism,” he noted.
Historically, the BMA has been the sole group consulted regarding changes to the GP contract since the inception of the health service. However, starting in 2025, the government plans to involve additional groups, including the Royal College of GPs, Healthwatch England, National Voices, and the NHS Confederation to foster a more inclusive discussion that also considers patient perspectives.
In response, Dr. David Wrigley, deputy chair of the BMA’s GP Committee, voiced his dismay 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.”
The BMA has faced significant challenges in the past few weeks, including the cancellation of all meetings with the government while their relationship was under review. Streeting’s direct communication to GPs bypassing the committee is reminiscent of tactics he used with resident doctors before their recent five-day walkout, where he urged them to strike against union directives.
Dr. Bramall responded to the ongoing situation, asserting, “We have repeatedly sought to work with the Government all year to make their aspirations a safe success but, in recent weeks, attempts have been thwarted by incessant media briefings and nameless sources engaging in relentless attacks on the integrity of the profession.”
As this dispute unfolds, the implications for patient care and the future of GP contracts in the NHS remain uncertain. The tension between the government and the BMA signals a significant shift in how medical professionals will negotiate their working conditions moving forward.
Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops.
