Assisted Dying Bill - My vote at 'third reading'

Today, MPs voted to approve the Bill at “third reading” by a majority of just 23 (there were 314 votes for to 291 against). Now the Bill will go to the House of Lords. If they amend it, a “ping pong” between Commons and Lords will seek to resolve any disagreements before a final vote. 

As you may know, I voted against the Bill last November at “second reading”. This was not a position I reached lightly. I did so because of my concerns about protecting Disabled people in particular. Preventing coercion was a huge issue for me – including the self-coercion that can come from being made to feel less worthy all your life. 

I’ve spent 20 years campaigning for better services and new rights for Disabled people and their families. From numerous conversations, I am aware how many Disabled people fear assisted dying. Their experience during the Covid pandemic, when many had “do not resuscitate” notices put on their medical records without them being informed, has added to fears of being treated less well if assisted dying existed. 

I said I would reconsider my vote if the Bill could be amended in a way that addressed my concerns. Despite some improvements, this hasn’t sufficiently happened, which is why I voted again today to oppose the Bill. 

The Bill has nonetheless been improved by a number of amendments which I supported. The latest version: 

• Extends the right to opt-out, so that not just doctors but all medical professionals, including pharmacists and social workers, will have the right not to take part in assisted dying; 

• Protects young people by prohibiting any medical professional from discussing assisted dying with someone aged under 18; 

• Bans the advertising of assisted dying to protect vulnerable people from being targeted; and 

• Requires a review of the availability, quality and distribution of palliative care after one year of the Bill being passed. 

Finally, I’m pleased the debate has led to a greater focus on palliative care. Having met the Marie Curie charity recently, I share their ambition that the palliative care amendment above will lead to high quality palliative care becoming more widely available across the country. I intend to play my part in making that happen. 

Best wishes 

Ben