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

The Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill is back in Parliament today for the new Parliamentary session starting again at its second reading.

As I have said previously, my position on the substance of the Bill has not changed. I remain concerned that the safeguards are not yet strong enough to protect vulnerable people from coercion, pressure or unintended consequences and I do not believe it is the role of the state to sanction the circumstances under which someone should die.

For those reasons, 𝗜 𝘄𝗶𝗹𝗹 𝗮𝗴𝗮𝗶𝗻 𝘃𝗼𝘁𝗲 𝗮𝗴𝗮𝗶𝗻𝘀𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗕𝗶𝗹𝗹. However, I do believe it is right that the Bill is back before the House of Commons.

Last time, MPs voted for the Bill to progress through Parliament, only for its passage to be stopped in the House of Lords. I was clear about my own opposition to the Bill, but I also believe strongly in respecting the democratic process. Where the elected House of Commons has considered an issue and reached a decision, that decision should not simply be frustrated through procedural obstruction.

This is an issue that deserves proper debate and a clear decision by Parliament. I therefore welcome the opportunity for MPs to consider the Bill again and for the arguments, concerns and safeguards to be properly tested.

I know this is a deeply personal and emotional issue and I continue to have enormous respect for those who hold different views to mine. I have listened carefully to constituents on both sides and will continue to approach this debate with care and conscience.

Whatever the outcome, we must also continue to focus on ensuring everyone has access to high-quality palliative, hospice & end-of-life care, so that nobody feels they are being denied the dignity, the compassion or the support they deserve at the end of their life.

Thank you again to all constituents who have taken the time to share their views with me since the initial bill was first brought forward.