Assisted Dying Committee Begins Scrutiny Process Amid Divisions

The committee scrutinizing the assisted dying bill, which received initial backing in November, held its first meeting amid reminders for civility and courtesy among members. The 23-member committee, led by Chairman Sir Roger Gale, features a majority in favor of the bill, but tensions arose over whether discussions about potential witnesses should be held privately. Opponent MP Danny Kruger emphasized the need for strengthened safeguards in the legislation, questioning the clarity of the definition of terminal illness and the processes involved in approving assisted deaths. As the committee prepares for expert evidence hearings set for late January, various amendments are being proposed, including additional safeguards against coercion and the requirement for doctors to have training on domestic abuse. Supporter Kim Leadbeater defended the bill's integrity against claims that it was crafted by a campaign group, asserting her and her colleagues' legislative expertise. This contentious issue will continue to evolve as the committee conducts line-by-line scrutiny in the coming weeks.