Crucial parliamentary vote on legalizing assisted dying

The British Parliament is set for a second critical vote on a bill that aims to legalize medical assistance in dying. This follows a heated debate and significant amendments to the original proposal. In late November, the bill narrowly passed its first reading, allowing assisted dying or assisted suicide for certain terminally ill patients.

If the bill is approved again on Friday, it will proceed to the House of Lords. However, if rejected, the initiative will be dropped, marking the end of a decade-long effort to legalize assisted dying. Supporters and opponents are expected to gather outside Parliament as the debate continues.

Kim Leadbeater, a Labour MP who introduced the bill, highlights the importance of supporting individuals facing the prospect of a painful and undignified death, either for themselves or a loved one. She emphasizes the urgency to change the current law to offer hope for a more humane end of life.

The bill would legalize assisted dying for adults with a terminal illness expected to live less than six months, who can self-administer the life-ending medication. Notably, amendments now give final approval to a panel of experts rather than a High Court judge, a change criticized by opponents. Health professionals, including nurses and pharmacists, would have the right to opt out of participation, similar to doctors. Advertising assisted suicide services would also be prohibited.

Additionally, independent experts will be appointed to support people with mental health issues, and a disability advisory council will guide the government on the law’s implementation and its impact on disabled individuals. Despite these provisions, concerns were expressed by the Royal College of Psychiatrists regarding some aspects of the bill.

The vote is expected to be close, as several MPs have shifted their positions since November. Political parties have not instructed their members how to vote, but Prime Minister Keir Starmer has voiced support for the bill. If passed by both houses, it may take up to four years before assisted dying is officially introduced.

Government estimates suggest that between 160 and 640 assisted deaths could occur in the first year, rising gradually to about 4,500 by the tenth year. Currently, assisted dying remains illegal, with penalties of up to 14 years in prison for those who assist or encourage it in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland.

In Scotland, where aiding someone to die can lead to prosecution for voluntary homicide, parliament recently approved a bill at first reading to legalize assisted dying. The Isle of Man became the first British territory to legalize a form of assisted dying earlier this year.