The public backs the decision of RCM members to strike against the rejection of a one per cent pay increase, according to a poll from ComRes.
The public backs the decision of RCM members to strike against the rejection of a one per cent pay increase, according to a poll from ComRes.
The poll commissioned by the RCM, shows that 63 per cent of the British public would support industrial action by midwives, with the condition that arrangements would be made for any pregnant woman that needed care during the strike period.
Four fifths (80 per cent) of the respondents would support a one per cent pay rise to NHS staff.
Cathy Warwick, chief executive of the RCM, said: 'This public backing fills me with hope for our campaign and our ballot and I am sure it will be welcomed by midwives. I do however want to reassure women and their families that they will continue to receive safe care during any industrial action. The woman, her baby and their safety are a midwife's absolute priority and any action will not change that.'
Another poll for the RCM by Dods polling of 100 MPs shows that 71 per cent supported raising the pay for all NHS staff.
Around 87 per cent of Labour respondents supported a pay rise, as well as 58 per cent of Conservative respondents.
Publication of these polls follows the result of the RCM ballot last week, which supported strike action.
Ms Warwick said: 'That so many Conservative MPs are in favour of the pay award that has been rejected should sound alarm bells at the highest level.
We really do want to get back to talking about this with the Government. The truth is investing in staff leads to good outcomes for the people the NHS serves and this is something we all want.'