The junior doctor contract: the BMA must pick up the pieces and move forward

The latest episode of the four year battle between the Government and the British Medical Association (BMA) serves as stark reminder of the loneliness of ministerial office. But, argues Tony Hockley, in the end the buck really does stop with the Secretary of State. If the BMA works with the Health Secretary they could make further progress on the new contract, even after the decision on imposition. Perhaps more importantly, the BMA must now address the wider issues that face the NHS and start negotiating on next steps.