MPs need time for assisted dying debate

The last time Parliament voted on assisted dying was in 2015, when MPs voted 330 to 118 against a change in the law.

But nearly a decade on, arguments in favour of legalisation have been growing in number and volume.

It is clearly time for the Commons to express its views again and, if elected, Sir Keir Starmer plans to make parliamentary time for a free vote on the issue.

As Chloe Chaplain and Alex Dakers report today, the Labour leader told Dame Esther Rantzen, who has led the most recent campaign for a change in the law on assisted dying, that he “personally” supported the move, and is committed to allowing a full debate and vote.

It is not yet known what form this will take, whether as government legislation or a private member’s bill. But it would be a free vote, meaning party whips would not be able to issue orders to MPs, allowing them to vote with their consciences.

What is clear is that, given the complexities and seriousness of such a legal change and the strength of feeling on both sides of the debate, Parliament should be given as much time as possible to debate it.

MPs from all parties should be responsible for equipping themselves with as much information on the ramifications of a change in the law, including on the lessons of other countries that allow assisted dying. It is not a matter that can be voted on after a debate of a few hours.

In his conversation with Dame Esther, Sir Keir acknowledged there should be “safeguards with teeth” if assisted dying were legalised, to protect the vulnerable and those who might feel pressured into agreeing.

Most importantly, after nine years since the last vote, people affected by this issue need certainty, so a fresh parliamentary debate could not come soon enough.