Wes Streeting to Oppose Assisted Dying Bill

Health Secretary Wes Streeting has announced he will vote against the Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill, citing concerns over the inadequacy of NHS end-of-life care and fears of coercion among vulnerable individuals. Streeting, who previously supported assisted dying legislation in 2015, expressed that the current palliative care system does not provide patients with a genuine choice, stating that many might feel a 'duty to die.' His decision aligns with Justice Secretary Shabana Mahmood, who has also publicly opposed the bill, emphasizing the sanctity of life. The bill, introduced by Labour backbencher Kim Leadbeater, aims to provide terminally ill patients the option to request assistance in ending their lives under strict safeguards. The debate and initial vote on the bill are scheduled for November 29, amid growing concerns from various stakeholders, including disability advocates and religious leaders, about the potential implications of assisted dying legislation. As discussions continue, at least 100 Labour MPs remain undecided on the bill, reflecting the complex and sensitive nature of the topic.