Unite, has today (Sunday 5 March) announced it has paused its forthcoming ambulance strikes, in order to enter pay talks with the government.

Unite head of operations Gail Cartmail said: “Following further assurances from the government over the weekend Unite has in good faith agreed to pause the strike action.

“If the meeting doesn't meet these assurances strike action will resume.”

The assurances relate to a confirmation that any deal will include new money, rather than placing further pressure on NHS budgets and an indication that discussions about “efficiencies” and “productivity savings” will not result in attacks on the conditions of NHS staff.

The strike action scheduled for tomorrow (6 March) and Wednesday (8 March) will now not go ahead.

ENDS

Notes to editors

For media enquiries ONLY please contact Unite senior communications officer Barckley Sumner on 07802 329235 or 0203 371 2067.

Email: [email protected]

Unite is the UK and Ireland’s leading union fighting to protect and advance jobs, pay and conditions for members working across all sectors of the economy. The general secretary is Sharon Graham.