City MP is critical of strike by junior doctors

MERCER HAILS STAFF WHO GAVE COVER

-  TOBY CODD

PLYMOUTH MP Johnny Mercer has slammed the past week's junior doctors' strike.

The doctors began the walkout last Wednesday, in a bitter dispute over pay. It ended this morning, and was the longest single period of strike action in NHS history.

Plymouth's Derriford Hospital declared a critical incident last Friday, due to sustained pressure and high attendances to its Emergency Department. People were urged to only go to Derriford Hospital if they had a serious emergency or life-threatening condition.

Mr Mercer, the Conservative MP for Plymouth Moor View, has said he is really upset' by the strike action, which is taking place at a particularly busy time of year for health workers.

Mr Mercer thanked and paid tribute to staff who have worked longer hours to cover for those striking, as he said in a statement last weekend: "It has been a particularly difficult period with the junior doctor strikes at Derriford and I pay tribute to all those who are picking up shifts to cover for them.