UK MPs Pass Assisted Dying Bill in Historic Vote

Britain's Parliament has taken a historic step toward legalising assisted dying by passing the Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill with a vote of 314 to 291. The bill allows mentally competent adults in England and Wales, diagnosed with a terminal illness and less than six months to live, to request medical assistance to end their life, subject to approval by two independent doctors and a panel of experts. The legislation mandates the individual must self-administer the life-ending medication, following a 14-day waiting period, and includes strict safeguards to prevent coercion, with penalties of up to 14 years in prison for forcing or pressuring someone. The bill now moves to the House of Lords for further debate, where it is expected to pass, potentially bringing Britain in line with countries like Belgium, the Netherlands, Australia, Canada, and some U.S. states. Supporters emphasize the bill offers dignity and compassionate choice for terminally ill people, while opponents raise concerns about protecting vulnerable populations and the need for enhanced palliative care. If enacted, assisted dying could be legally available by 2029, following a four-year implementation period.