Assisted Dying Bill Debated in UK Parliament
Background
UK lawmakers have been debating whether to advance emotive legislation to legalise assisted dying for terminally ill people in England and Wales. The debate has been ongoing ahead of an expected vote on Friday, as competing protesters made their voices heard outside parliament.
Recent Shift in Public Opinion
The House of Commons last debated, and defeated, a euthanasia bill in 2015. However, public support for giving terminally ill people the choice to end their lives has since shifted in favour, according to polls.
Key Points of the Bill
Labour MP Kim Leadbeater, who is behind the Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill, argues that changing the law would give terminally ill people "choice, autonomy, and dignity at the end of their lives." Advocates also argue that it would make some deaths less painful.
Opposition to the Bill
However, other MPs have expressed concern that people might feel coerced into opting for euthanasia, while some have said they are worried it would discriminate against people with disabilities. Opponents also worry that the healthcare system is not ready for such a landmark change and that it could cause a decline in investment for palliative care.
International Comparison
A change in the law would see Britain emulate several other countries in Europe and elsewhere who allow some form of assisted dying. The measures are stricter than assisted dying laws in other European countries and also proposed legislation being contemplated in France.
Next Steps
The debate is expected to end at 2:00 pm (1400 GMT), with a vote on progressing the bill to its next parliamentary stage expected shortly afterwards. MPs will have a free vote, making the outcome difficult to predict. If the legislation is advanced, it would kickstart parliamentary scrutiny that could take months or years.
Conclusion
The assisted dying bill has sparked a heated debate, with both sides presenting compelling arguments. As the UK parliament deliberates on this emotionally charged issue, it is crucial to consider the potential consequences of changing the law. Will the bill be advanced, and what implications will it have for terminally ill individuals and the healthcare system as a whole?
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the current law on assisted suicide in the UK?
A: Assisted suicide currently carries a maximum prison sentence of 14 years in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
Q: How many countries allow some form of assisted dying?
A: Several European countries and elsewhere allow some form of assisted dying, with the measures being stricter in the UK.
Q: Who is behind the Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill?
A: Labour MP Kim Leadbeater is behind the bill.
Q: What is the expected timeline for the bill?
A: The debate is expected to end at 2:00 pm (1400 GMT), with a vote on progressing the bill to its next parliamentary stage expected shortly afterwards.