Labour MP Kim Leadbeater Proposes Groundbreaking Assisted Dying Bill
A new Assisted Dying Bill, proposed by Labour MP Kim Leadbeater, is set to be debated in the British Parliament on 29 November 2024. This legislation aims to legalise assisted dying for terminally ill adults in England and Wales, allowing those with a life expectancy of six months or less to receive help from medical professionals in ending their lives.
Supporters of the bill argue that it would provide a compassionate choice for those suffering unbearably from terminal illnesses. The proposed law includes stringent safeguards to protect vulnerable individuals, requiring the approval of two doctors and a High Court judge before proceeding with any assisted dying requests. Measures to prevent coercion are also outlined, with penalties of up to 14 years imprisonment for any breaches.
Despite the bill’s momentum, it faces significant opposition and scrutiny. Critics express concerns about the potential rush to legislate without comprehensive examination, fearing that vulnerable patients may be pressured into making such profound decisions. Public sentiment appears to be shifting towards support for assisted dying, yet debates surrounding ethical considerations and the quality of palliative care remain prominent.
Key points from the legislation include:
- Eligibility for terminally ill adults with mental capacity.
- Mandatory assessments and court approval prior to assisted dying.
- Strong legal protections against coercion.
- The upcoming parliamentary debate marks the first discussion of assisted dying legislation in nearly a decade.
The outcome of the bill is uncertain as MPs are divided, with many still undecided on how to approach the vote. As families and organisations weigh in on this emotive issue, the debate underscores the complex interplay of ethics, law, and personal choice in end-of-life care.
Proposed law 'could stop horrific deaths' campaigners say
The proposed law would allow terminally ill adults in England and Wales to end their own life - but MP warns it could be a risk to the vulnerable.
www.bbc.com
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Labour MP Kim Leadbeater’s controversial legislation to be published
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What is the new assisted dying bill and who will qualify?
The contentious bill will be debated in parliament for the first time in nearly 10 years.
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Assisted dying bill enters parliament – how likely is it to become law?
Kim Leadbeater’s assisted dying bill has the personal support of the prime minister but the road ahead is fraught.
theconversation.com
Bill to legalize assisted-sying introduced in British Parliament - UPI.com
The British parliament published an assisted-dying draft bill Tuesday that would give terminally ill adults with less than six months to live the lega
www.upi.com
What is the Assisted Dying Bill? Details of divisive new law revealed
The Private Member’s Bill calls for terminally ill people in England and Wales to be given the right to choose to end their life
www.standard.co.uk
UK assisted dying bill offers ‘strictest safeguards’ say supporters
Labour MP’s proposed legislation sets out that end-of-life applications would have to go before a High Court judge
www.ft.com
MPs should take their time over the assisted dying bill
The speeches in most Bills tend to be about such broad brush principles that it's often difficult to tell what the legislation intends to do.
www.spectator.co.uk
Assisted dying bill’s ‘strict’ safeguards to include long jail terms for coercion
Labour MP’s proposed legislation for England and Wales also includes powers for judges to cross-examine patients
www.theguardian.com