Boris Johnson and Matt Hancock are under fire today over the government's proposal to hand NHS staff a real-terms pay cut in thanks for their hard work during the pandemic.
The proposed 1% pay deal has sparked fury among NHS staff and unions, who branded it a "kick in the teeth".
And their anger has been made worse NHS workers being led to believe they would be "rewarded" for their life-saving efforts tackling Covid-19 - preferably with something more than weekly applause.
The PM and Health Secretary have repeatedly suggested a financial reward would be coming during TV interviews, press conferences and in the House of Commons.
Here's a round up of just some of the times they've raised health workers' hopes.
We want to hear from NHS & care staff - tell us about your last year and how you feel about the one per cent pay rise plan. Email mirrornews@mirror.co.uk
May 15, 2020 - Matt Hancock - Number 10 press conference
"When it comes to how we reward people for their efforts in this crisis, what I can tell you is that as the Health Secretary I will be making sure that we fight to have that fair reward."
May 20, 2020 - Boris Johnson - Prime Minister's Questions
“We will want to see our fantastic frontline workers paid properly. That is, I think, the best way forward. I want to see our NHS staff paid properly, our NHS supported.”
Mr Johnson made this comment 38 days after being released from hospital, where he was treated for Covid-19.
July 5, 2020 - Matt Hancock - Sky News
“We absolutely want to reward NHS staff for what they’ve done”
Bonus: June 20, 2020 - Boris Johnson suggests we should clap for bankers
“And yes of course we clap for our NHS - but under this government we also applaud those who make our NHS possible - our innovators, our wealth creators, our capitalists, our financiers.
“In the end, it is their willingness to take risks with their own money that will be crucial for our future success.”
