Esther Rantzen Urges MPs on Assisted Dying Vote

Dame Esther Rantzen, a prominent advocate for legalizing assisted dying, has called on MPs to carefully consider their votes on the upcoming assisted dying bill, emphasizing that it is a 'vital life and death issue' for the public. Rantzen, who is terminally ill with stage 4 lung cancer, has expressed the urgency of the matter as she may need to travel to Switzerland for assistance in dying, highlighting that many terminally ill individuals cannot afford such options. She urged MPs not to let their religious beliefs dictate their votes, instead advocating for a decision based on constituents' perspectives. The bill, sponsored by MP Kim Leadbeater, would allow terminally ill adults to request assistance to end their lives under strict safeguards. As the House of Commons prepares for a debate and vote on this legislation, Rantzen has sent letters to all MPs urging their participation, noting that the outcome is uncertain with many MPs still undecided. Rantzen's plea comes in a context where similar bills have failed in the past, underscoring the historical significance of this vote.