A&Es may have to close due to doctors' strikes

'Hangover period' could hit services

- MARTIN BAGOT

A&E units could partially close in the next few weeks due to the unprecedented four-day strike by junior doctors over pay.

The British Medical Association yesterday said it had started dialogue with mediators Acas.

But the Tories still refused to join talks unless the union abandons its demand of 35% "pay restoration".

Labour leader Keir Starmer said he does not think 35% is affordable but called on Health Secretary Steve Barclay to "sort this issue out".