UK MPs Vote on Contentious Assisted Dying Bill

The Assisted Dying Bill in England and Wales is progressing through Parliament, with a final vote scheduled for June, amid intense debate over both ethical and practical issues. While the bill initially passed on principle, recent discussions have focused on the detailed provisions, including who qualifies, how decisions are made, and the role of medical professionals. Concerns have been raised about the legislative process itself, with some MPs criticizing procedural flaws and the handling of amendments. A government impact assessment, drawing on experiences from jurisdictions like Oregon and Canada, highlights challenges such as the reliability of drugs used in assisted dying and the likelihood of many doctors and institutions opting out of providing the service. The bill does not compel hospices to participate, which may limit access for patients seeking assisted dying. Meanwhile, the human aspect of voluntary assisted dying is explored through personal stories, such as those featured in Julian Kingma’s photography book 'The Power of Choice,' which reflects on what constitutes a good death.