LONDON – On Nov 29, British lawmakers will face a deeply emotional decision as they vote on a Bill to legalize assisted dying for terminally ill, mentally competent adults in England and Wales. The proposed law would allow individuals with six months or less to live the option of medically assisted death, marking the first significant attempt to change such laws in a decade.
The vote has ignited a national debate, dividing Parliament, faith leaders, medics, and members of Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s government. Public polls suggest strong support for assisted dying, with advocates citing the importance of choice and dignity for those nearing the end of their lives. However, parliamentary backing is uncertain, with concerns over potential coercion and insufficient safeguards.
Under the Bill, two doctors and a High Court judge would need to verify the voluntary nature of the request, with penalties of up to 14 years in prison for coercion. Critics, including campaign group Care Not Killing, argue the process has been rushed and point to risks of safeguards being weakened over time, as seen in other countries.
Labour MP Kim Leadbeater, who introduced the Bill, emphasized that public sentiment favors giving terminally ill individuals the right to decide. If passed, the legislation would move to further parliamentary scrutiny in 2025, but its future remains uncertain.
The decision could place Britain alongside countries like Canada, Australia, and some US states in permitting assisted dying, potentially shaping one of the nation’s most significant social reforms in decades. Scotland is separately considering a similar law.