Labour MP Proposes New Assisted Dying Legislation

Labour MP Kim Leadbeater is introducing a bill to allow terminally ill patients in England and Wales to choose assisted dying. The proposal will be introduced in Parliament on 16 October and aims to allow adults with six months to live medical help to end their lives. While gaining some support, it faces significant opposition over vulnerabilities and care system challenges, with the government remaining neutral.

Labour MP Kim Leadbeater is set to introduce a bill in October that could change the laws on assisted dying in England and Wales.

The proposal would allow terminally ill adults predicted to have six months or fewer to live the choice to end their life with medical assistance.

Previously, a similar bill failed in 2015.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer has agreed to allow a free vote for his MPs.

While supported by some, the proposal faces opposition, including from Baroness Tanni Grey-Thompson and Dr. Gordon Macdonald of Care Not Killing, who raise concerns about potential impacts on vulnerable people and the current state of palliative care.

The government has announced it will remain neutral on the matter.

This movement has gained visibility following Dame Esther Rantzen’s announcement of joining Dignitas after her lung cancer diagnosis.

The bill's progress in Parliament remains uncertain due to existing divisions in political opinion.

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