Government could ‘fast-track’ NHS pay rise in 2023 as more strikes loom

Health secretary Steve Barclay said to want next year’s pay review to happen ‘at pace’

Health secretary Steve Barclay (PA) (PA Wire)

Rishi Sunak’s government could fast-track an NHS pay rise next year after 48 hours of historic strikes by nurses and paramedics, according to reports.

Health secretary Steve Barclay is said to be ready to offer an expedited pay deal in 2023 in a bid to prevent fresh industrial action next year.

A source close to Mr Barclay revealed he is keen to “speed up” the pay review process – set to begin in April – to give NHS staff a pay rise to break the deadlock.