MPs Back Bill to Legalise Assisted Dying in England and Wales
In a landmark vote, MPs have backed a bill to legalise assisted dying in England and Wales, paving the way for a change in the law. The bill, put forward by Labour MP Kim Leadbeater, aims to allow terminally ill adults with a prognosis of six months or less to seek help to end their own life.
The vote was a historic moment, with 330 MPs supporting the bill and 275 opposing it, a majority of 55. The vote followed an emotional debate, where MPs shared personal stories that had informed their decisions.
Supporters of the bill, including campaign group Dignity in Dying and broadcaster Dame Esther Rantzen, celebrated the result, describing it as “a historic step towards greater choice and protection for dying people”. However, opponents, including Conservative MP Danny Kruger, expressed concerns that the bill could be “very dangerous” and urged parliamentarians to strengthen the safeguards in the legislation.
The bill now faces further scrutiny and debate, with approval from both Houses of Parliament required before it becomes law. However, its passage has marked a significant shift in the political landscape on the issue, with Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, his Conservative predecessor Rishi Sunak, and several cabinet members voting in favor of the bill.
The vote also saw a higher percentage of female MPs backing the bill, with 55% of female MPs in favor, compared to 49% of male MPs. The vote is a significant milestone in the push to legalise assisted dying in the UK, with similar bills proposed in Scotland and other countries around the world.