The Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill was re-introduced and the vote on Second Reading took place yesterday. The House of Commons, on this occasion, rejected the bill, with 286 MPs voting against and 270 in favour, meaning it will go no further and is very unlikely to reappear in this Parliament.
Following very serious consideration and listening to the debate, I voted for the previous bill at Second Reading in 2024 and Third Reading in 2025, as I believed it would provide a safe choice to those at the end of life.
However, I did not believe the bill was perfect and voted for amendments to strengthen it, such as the prohibition on medical professionals raising it with anyone who lacks capacity by reason of age, which was incorporated into the bill.
Yesterday I once again voted in favour of this bill at Second Reading, but was unable to participate in the debate on the bill due to prior meeting commitments.
I recognise that this is a devolved matter in Scotland and I respect the will of the Scottish Parliament, which rejected Liam McArthur’s bill earlier this year. This bill would have applied only to England and Wales, and I have a responsibility as a Member of the UK Parliament to consider matters impacting the entirety of the United Kingdom.
I recognise the concern that arose following the Scottish Parliament’s rejection around the prospect of people crossing into England to end their life. In considering yesterday’s vote, I was satisfied that this risk was fully mitigated by the bill’s requirement for 12 months of residency in England or Wales before becoming eligible.
I would like to thank every person who has contacted me about this, sharing their personal perspectives and professional views. Your views remain invaluable in informing my votes as your Member of Parliament.