A bill proposing assisted dying for terminally ill individuals in England and Wales is set to be introduced in Parliament this month, marking the first vote on the issue in nine years. Labour MP Kim Leadbeater is spearheading the bill, emphasizing that “now is the time” for a fresh debate. The proposed legislation would grant eligible adults nearing the end of their lives the right to choose to shorten their deaths if they wish.

Key Provisions of the Bill

– Allow terminally ill adults with six months or fewer to live to receive medical help to end their lives
– Eligible individuals would have the right to choose to shorten their deaths
– Similar to a proposal in the House of Lords

Supporters, including broadcaster Dame Esther Rantzen, who has lung cancer, advocate for change, citing the risk of prosecution for families assisting loved ones in ending their lives in Switzerland. In contrast, Baroness Tanni Grey-Thompson and Dr. Lucy Thomas express concerns about the impact on vulnerable individuals and the role of courts versus doctors in judging assisted dying.

Assisted suicide is currently banned in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, with a maximum 14-year prison sentence. The bill’s introduction follows increased attention on the issue, with Scotland, Jersey, and the Isle of Man also considering law changes.

The last vote on assisted dying in 2015 resulted in 118 MPs voting in favor and 300 against. The government has confirmed it will remain neutral on the bill, allowing ministers to vote according to their conscience.

The bill is expected to be formally introduced on October 16, with the first full debate likely to take place later this year. Its passage requires approval from MPs and peers.