The House of Commons recently approved the Assisted Dying Bill with a 55-vote majority after a passionate five-hour debate. The bill aims to allow terminally ill adults in England and Wales, with less than six months to live, to seek assisted dying. However, the victory may be short-lived as many MPs are hesitant to support the final legislation without further reassurances.
Concerns Among MPs
Key concerns focus on the bill’s safeguards against coercion and its future scope. Under the current proposal, any assisted dying request must be approved by two doctors and a High Court judge. Critics, including Tory MP David Davis, stress the need for stricter measures, such as requiring doctors to have a special license to approve such requests.
“If 30 MPs changed their mind, the bill would fail,” Davis warned. He urged Kim Leadbeater to proactively address concerns by engaging with MPs who supported the bill.
Government and Political Challenges
The bill’s progress could face delays as it undergoes scrutiny by a cross-party committee early next year. The committee will gather oral and written evidence to refine the bill. Meanwhile, Labour MPs expressed frustration, fearing the bill could divert attention from pressing issues, potentially affecting Keir Starmer’s political agenda.
The government has also flagged resource implications for the NHS. Health Secretary Wes Streeting and Justice Secretary Shabana Mahmood are among those opposing the bill.
Public Support for Change
Despite parliamentary challenges, public sentiment remains strong. An Opinium poll revealed that 64% of respondents support legalizing assisted dying, citing dignity and relief for terminally ill people as the strongest arguments. However, concerns about vulnerable individuals being pressured remain a significant obstacle, highlighted by 40% of respondents.
Next Steps for the Bill
The bill will return to the Commons for further debate in April 2025, after months of scrutiny. Leadbeater’s allies believe addressing concerns through committee discussions will strengthen support for the bill.
“Kim is committed to ensuring all voices are heard and concerns are addressed,” said a spokesperson.
As the Assisted Dying Bill moves forward, its fate hinges on resolving critical concerns while maintaining public and parliamentary trust.
