Statement on the Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill

Today, Parliament held the final vote on the Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill at its third reading in the Commons. This bill, which proposes to legalise assisted dying for terminally ill individuals with six months or less to live, has sparked one of the most serious and heartfelt debates of this Parliament – and rightly so.

Since its introduction and during each stage of scrutiny, I have listened closely to the arguments put forward both inside and outside the chamber. I have read moving accounts from constituents who have written to me from deeply personal perspectives – some in support, others in opposition. I remain grateful to all who have taken the time to share their views.

As the bill has progressed, it has undergone important revisions – but, in my view, not the kind that resolve the concerns I have raised throughout. The removal of judicial oversight, for example, remains a significant departure from the original safeguards and continues to raise serious questions about the robustness of protections for the most vulnerable.

Despite the assurances provided by the bill’s supporters, I remain unconvinced that the current framework offers sufficient safeguards to prevent coercion, ensure full informed consent, and protect those who may be at risk due to age, disability, isolation, or inadequate access to appropriate care. These are not abstract risks – they are very real concerns, particularly within a healthcare system under immense strain.

I recognise the compassion that motivates many who support this bill, and I do not question the sincerity or integrity of those who voted differently today. However, having weighed the final version of the bill against my own reservations, 𝐈 𝐡𝐚𝐯𝐞 𝐚𝐠𝐚𝐢𝐧 𝐯𝐨𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐚𝐠𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐬𝐭 𝐢𝐭.

I continue to believe that the right response to suffering at the end of life lies in improving access to high-quality palliative and hospice care, ensuring that no one faces their final days without adequate support, dignity, or compassion. I recently visited Dr. Kershaw’s Hospice in Oldham and saw the incredible work done to make sure people live well at the end of their life. I believe we are at a point in this country where that should be our national priority – expanding and improving access to palliative care, not introducing a law that, however well intentioned, could place already vulnerable individuals at even greater risk.

My foundational belief remains that it is not the state’s role to sanction when someone should die but instead is to actively protect people throughout all stages of their life.

Although I voted against the bill, it has now narrowly passed its third reading and will move forward into the Lords for further scrutiny. I respect the outcome of the democratic process and also commend how thorough and respectful the discussion on this issue has been.

What must not be lost now – and what I will continue to advocate for – is a renewed national focus on palliative and end-of-life care. Legalising assisted dying cannot become a substitute for the comprehensive, compassionate care that every person deserves in their final days. If anything, this moment should serve as a wake-up call to address the gaps in our current system that we inherited from the Tories.

Whatever one’s view on assisted dying, we must ensure that no one ever feels they have to choose it because they were denied proper care, dignity, or comfort at the end of life.

Thank you again to everyone who has engaged with me on this profoundly important issue.