OPEN TO TALKS

British Health Secretary Steve Barclay said yesterday he was open to talks with nurses union RCN but highlighted the merits of a pay rise that was set out by the government in July.

Barclay emphasised that a previously announced pay rise of at least £1,400 ($1,695.26) will mean a newly qualified nurse will typically earn over £31,000 a year.

“The NHS (National Health Service) has tried and tested plans in place to minimise disruption and ensure emergency services continue to operate but inevitably strike action will have an impact on services,” he said on Twitter.