New Health Secretary Victoria Atkins has revealed she is an 'optimist' who will adopt a different approach to negotiating with doctors in a bid to end strikes.
She told health bosses at the NHS Providers' annual conference in Liverpool that she will 'get around the table' to find a 'fair and reasonable resolution'.
In a pre-recorded video message, Ms Atkins said she plans to work with staff to overcome the challenges in the health service and 'take the long-term decisions that will build a brighter future for our NHS'.
She added: 'This is the approach I will take to industrial action.