Today I voted in favour of the Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill.
I want to thank the many constituents who have contacted me on this matter.
This is a complex and emotive issue, and I know there are strongly held ethical and moral views on both sides of the debate.
I have been keen to listen to all views about this important issue from all constituents and have met with Kim Leadbeater MP who is leading on the Bill, to pass on constituent’s views and ideas.
Regarding the Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill, I welcome that while remaining neutral the Government has committed to implement assisted dying in a way that is safe and practicable. As a result, an amendment was made to the bill which means that, should this Bill become law, it is highly unlikely to be fully implemented before 2029, at the earliest.
The Bill has been examined line-by-line by a committee of MPs who agreed over 100 amendments to it. I note some of these amendments were proposed by MPs who oppose the Bill and some by MPs who support it. There have also been several opportunities for all MPs to consider and debate the changes made by the committee before today’s final vote on whether to approve the Bill.
It is important that assisted dying does not become an alternative to high-quality palliative and end of life care. People deserve dignity in dying, and each person nearing the end of their life should feel reassured and safe in the knowledge they will receive the very best care.
Providing appropriate safeguards are in place, constituents will already know I have long supported a change in the law to enable terminally ill adults to receive, at their request, medically supervised assistance to end their own lives. I believe this legislation protects the vulnerable, respects the sanctity of life and provides dignity in death.
You can read more about my views on assisted dying here.
Thank you again to all those who’ve contacted me about this important matter.
