Assisted dying is one step closer to becoming legal in England and Wales after MPs voted in favour of a landmark Bill. The Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill, proposed by Kim Leadbeater, received majority support in the House of Commons, signalling a significant shift in end-of-life care legislation.
In a vote of 314 to 291, MPs approved the Bill at its third reading, marking the completion of its initial stages in the Commons. The legislation will now proceed to the House of Lords for further debate and scrutiny. For the Bill to become law, both Houses of Parliament must agree on the final text.
The Bill proposes that terminally ill adults with a prognosis of six months or less be allowed to seek an assisted death, subject to medical approval from two doctors and assessment by a panel that includes a social worker, a senior legal expert, and a psychiatrist. Crucially, this represents a response to concerns that current laws force many terminally ill people to end their lives in secrecy or travel abroad, such as to Dignitas, to avoid legal risks for themselves and their loved ones.
READ MORE: How Somerset’s MPs Voted on Assisted Dying Bill
READ MORE: World’s Poshest Train with Red Carpet Entry Offers Supreme Luxury
Currently, encouraging or assisting suicide is illegal in England and Wales, punishable by up to 14 years in prison. Supporters of the Bill argue that the law is outdated and fails to meet the needs of compassionate end-of-life choices. Ms Leadbeater emphasised that her Bill aims to “correct the profound injustices of the status quo” and provide a safe, compassionate option for those nearing the end of their lives.
During the extensive debates, MPs from both sides shared emotional personal stories about loved ones who had died. Opponents, such as Conservative former minister Sir James Cleverly, acknowledged the sensitive nature of the issue and spoke from personal experience. His concerns were centred on the practical aspects of the legislation rather than faith or ignorance.
The Bill was subject to a free vote, allowing MPs to decide based on conscience rather than party affiliation. Public opinion remains strongly in favour, with a recent YouGov poll indicating that around 73% of adults in Great Britain support the Bill, and 75% agree that assisted dying should be legal in principle.
If enacted, the legislation includes a four-year implementation period, meaning assisted dying could potentially become available by 2029, possibly coinciding with the end of the current Government’s Parliament.