Official UK Government publications or announcements

Kim Leadbeater's Assisted Dying Bill Promises Strict Safeguards

Nov 11, 2024, 06:41 PM

A new bill to legalize assisted dying in England and Wales, proposed by Labour MP Kim Leadbeater, has been published. The 'Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill' aims to grant terminally ill adults the right to end their lives with strict safeguards in place. These include a requirement for the individual to have less than six months to live, be mentally capable of making an informed choice, and have the approval of two doctors and a high court judge. The bill also promises the toughest safeguards against coercion, with long jail terms for those found guilty. Despite these assurances, there are concerns from some MPs and healthcare professionals about the potential pressures on the NHS and the ethical implications of the legislation. The bill is set for its second reading on 29 November 2024.