The 48-hour junior doctors' strike due to start next Tuesday has been called off by the British Medical Association.

The decision comes as talks continue this week between the doctors' union and the government about the disputed junior doctor contract in England.

The BMA said the move did not mean a deal had been reached.

A planned strike on Wednesday, February 10 could still go ahead if the negotiations stall.

That stoppage is considered to be potentially the most disruptive as it is a complete walk-out, whereas next week's one - like the 24-hour strike held last Tuesday - still saw junior doctors provide emergency cover.