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Legislative bills

Assisted Dying Bill Faces Crucial Vote in Commons Despite Opponents' Concerns

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

MPs will vote on the Terminally Ill Adults End of Life Bill on Friday, with supporters arguing it is now safer for those terminally ill, while opponents claim the process has been rushed and weakening the original bill. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has indicated he will back the bill, but Health Secretary Wes Streeting and Justice Secretary Shabana Mahmood voted against it in November.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Terminally Ill Adults End of Life Bill is set to be voted on in the Commons on Friday, with supporters arguing it is now safer for those terminally ill.
  • The bill would allow terminally ill adults in England and Wales with fewer than six months to live to apply for an assisted death, subject to approval by two doctors and a panel featuring a social worker, senior legal figure, and psychiatrist.
  • Opponents claim the process has been rushed and weakening the original bill, with concerns around the vulnerability of those with depression, eating disorders, or other mental health issues.
  • Supporter Rebecca Wilcox, daughter of terminally ill broadcaster Dame Esther Rantzen, describes the bill as "really safe, clever piece of law" and says its safeguards would not be extended beyond its current scope.
  • Opponent Gordon Macdonald from Care Not Killing argues their polling suggests the public is concerned the bill could put pressure on vulnerable people to end their lives prematurely.
  • It has been stated that Sir Keir Starmer's position on assisted dying is "long-standing and well-known," with no indication of a changed mind on the matter.

Statistics:

  • 55: Majority of MPs who supported the principle of assisted dying for England and Wales in a historic yes vote last year.
  • 90 hours: Amount of parliamentary time spent on the bill to date.
  • 5 years: Amount of time Sir Keir Starmer oversaw as chief prosecutor, where he oversaw every investigated case.
  • 10 years: Amount of time Labour MP Rupa Huq has been an MP, exposing her to coercion, duress, and elder abuse.
  • 85: Dame Esther Rantzen's age, nearing her birthday this weekend.

Sources:

  • PA News Agency
  • Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer
  • Dame Esther Rantzen
  • Rebecca Wilcox
  • Gordon Macdonald, chief executive of Care Not Killing
  • Labour MPs like Rupa Huq and Wes Streeting, Justice Secretary Shabana Mahmood

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