Doctors ’ strike will plunge the NHS into disruption, healthcare leaders warn, as five-day walkout begins. Health secretary Wes Streeting has accused the British Medical Association of laying “ damage at the NHS ’ door” after walking away from negotiations.

NHS bosses are putting patients at risk of harm in the upcoming doctors' strike, the British Medical Association says. The union believes NHS England's plan to limit the number of routine treatments being cancelled will stretch senior doctors covering for striking resident doctors too thinly.

NHS England said GP surgeries will remain open during the strike, which starts on Friday, and A&E and urgent care will still be available. | ITV National News