Official UK government announcements or amendments to the bill

UK Parliament to Vote on Assisted Dying Bill for Terminally Ill Adults, MPs Divided

Nov 27, 2024, 08:27 AM

The UK Parliament is set to debate and vote on a Private Members' Bill concerning assisted dying, introduced by Labour MP Kim Leadbeater. The bill aims to allow terminally ill adults in England and Wales to seek medical assistance to end their lives. The debate has sparked a range of reactions, with over 130 MPs requesting to speak, indicating significant interest and division. Critics argue that the bill is being rushed through Parliament, with concerns raised about the adequacy of safeguards, the potential for misuse, and the ethical implications. Despite public support for the principle of assisted dying, opposition comes from various quarters, including former Prime Ministers and current government officials, who fear it could lead to a 'slippery slope' towards euthanasia. The debate pits advocates for compassionate choice against those worried about the ethical risks and potential for coercion. A survey of MPs shows 112 in favor and 106 against, with a petition of 2 million signatures supporting the bill. Canada, which legalised assisted dying eight years ago, has seen over 30,000 deaths worldwide from this practice. The bill restricts eligibility to those with less than six months to live.