The backlash was provoked by a leaked document outlining the apparent plan by 19 chief executives of hospitals in the South-west to tackle the escalating funding crisis.

The proposed changes could involve the termination of all staff contracts for anyone earning over £21,000.

Contracts would be reissued but under different terms, with pay cuts of up to five per cent and an end to overtime for nights, weekends and bank holidays.

Sick pay rates could be cut and staff may be made to work longer shifts.

The hospital chiefs have allegedly set up an organisation outside NHS structures to drive through the changes.

The BMA has attacked any attempt to apply local terms and conditions for NHS staff. More than 6,000 staff are believed to be affected, about half of them medics.