In a historic move, UK MPs have voted in favour of a bill that could legalise assisted dying in England and Wales. The Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill 2024-25 was passed after an emotionally charged five-hour debate in the House of Commons.
The bill, which was proposed by a private member, will now proceed to the committee stage, where it will be scrutinised in depth. The proposed law would allow adults with a terminal illness and less than six months to live to request medical assistance to end their lives.
Around 54% of MPs voted in favour of the bill, with 330 voting for it and 275 against. This shift in support is significant, as a similar bill was rejected in 2015. The bill's proposers have allowed a two-year "commencement" period for the law to come into effect.
The current law states that assisting in a suicide can result in a 14-year custodial sentence. The proposed change would provide greater autonomy and dignity for terminally ill patients in their final days.
The debate surrounding assisted dying has been ongoing for years, with proponents arguing that it is a matter of compassion and human rights. Opponents, on the other hand, raise concerns about the potential risks and the impact on vulnerable individuals.
The vote has sparked a mixed reaction, with some welcoming the move as a step forward for compassion and human rights, while others express concerns about the potential consequences.
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