LABOUR must face strike action if it continues Tory delays to NHS pay negotiations, GMB conference heard today.

Delegates backed an emergency motion for the next government to make negotiate pay directly with unions a top priority.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s decision to call a general election delayed negotiations as pay review bodies (PRB) cannot make recommendations during purdah.

Sheffield Health delegate Sarah Young said that by calling an election “he left our pay rise in purdah.”

“Not only have we had a year-on-year pay cut but he’s ignored us again,” Ms Young said.

“He needs to hang his head in shame over what he’s done to the NHS.”

She urged Labour to negotiate directly with unions on pay should it get into power.

Seconding, delegate Holly Johnston said: “I think this motion highlights the need to abolish the PRB altogether. 

“We have to be ready and demand action if the incoming government continues to kick this down the road.”