Health Secretary Wes Streeting has issued a stark warning that the National Health Service (NHS) could face a collapse this Christmas if planned strikes by resident doctors proceed. In an article published in The Times, he highlighted a significant surge in flu cases that has left the NHS grappling with unprecedented challenges, reminiscent of the pandemic’s impact.
Streeting emphasized the critical nature of the current situation, indicating that the number of hospitalizations due to flu has risen sharply. According to NHS figures released on December 11, 2025, flu cases have surged by 55% in just one week, with an average of 2,660 patients hospitalized daily. He warned that if the trend continues, the figures could potentially triple, posing an enormous strain on the healthcare system.
Urgent Call to Action
In his appeal to the medical community, Streeting described the potential strikes as “the Jenga piece” that could lead to the collapse of the NHS. He urged resident doctors to accept the Government’s latest offer to resolve the ongoing dispute and avert the strikes scheduled for Christmas week.
“The whole NHS team is working around the clock to keep the show on the road, but it’s an incredibly precarious situation,” he wrote. “Christmas strikes could be the Jenga piece that collapses the tower.” He expressed his hope for a resolution, stating, “In this season of goodwill, I’m asking them to call off the Christmas strikes and choose a fresh start.”
The British Medical Association (BMA) has indicated it will consult its members regarding the Government’s proposal through an online survey. This survey is set to close on December 14, 2025, just two days before the planned five-day strike is due to commence. The union has highlighted concerns over whether the Government’s new deal is satisfactory enough to halt the industrial action.
Details of the Government’s Offer
The new proposal from the Government includes several key elements aimed at addressing the concerns of resident doctors. It encompasses new legislation prioritizing homegrown doctors in training for specialty roles and plans to increase the number of specialty training positions over the next three years. These changes are expected to create 1,000 new posts starting in 2026. Additionally, the Government has promised to fund mandatory examination fees and membership costs for Royal Colleges for resident doctors.
The BMA has yet to respond to Streeting’s direct appeal but is actively engaging its members to gauge their opinions on the proposed deal. The outcome of this consultation will play a crucial role in determining whether the planned strikes will proceed, which Streeting argues would only exacerbate the current strain on the NHS.
As the flu epidemic continues to escalate, the stakes are high for both the healthcare system and the medical professionals who serve within it. The call for unity and collaboration from the Health Secretary highlights the urgent need for a resolution to ensure that the NHS can continue to provide care during this critical period.
