麻豆约拍

Junior doctors are taking part in a second 24-hour walkout over pay and conditions, amid a dispute with the government over proposed new contracts.

Speaking to the Daily Politics, Dr David Rouse, deputy chairman of the BMA junior doctors committee, said the BMA wanted to get back round the negotiating table, and its door "is always open" to "fair" talks.

But, he said, "talks with the threat of imposition looming over junior doctors are not fair talks" - and said the BMA would "continue to fight" the contracts if they are imposed.

Schools minister Nick Gibb criticised the BMA's conduct during the dispute, saying "vested interests" were trying to block government reforms to bring about a seven-day NHS.

Meanwhile, shadow environment secretary Kerry McCarthy said junior doctors should be listened to, saying they were "overstretched and undervalued".