The Times says the government is braced for threats of mass walkouts across the NHS after an independent pay review body recommended a rise of about 3% for 1.38m workers.

The government is set to approve the recommendation, despite The Treasury budgeting for pay rises of 2.8%, but the unions are seeking a higher settlement.

The Royal College of Nursing has already given the government notice of industrial action.

Jo Galbraith-Marten, RCN director of legal, employment and member relations, said: 'We have a live survey of members open on what they think about the government's 2.8% proposal and what action, including industrial action, they might be prepared to take. 

‘When our members meet in two weeks' time at our annual Congress, they need answers, not endless speculation. This year's pay award is already late, and the government needs to provide some certainty for staff and patients as a matter of urgency.'

Other health unions are also said to be unhappy and are set to consult members about industrial action, the newspaper reports.