House of Lords Conducts Record Debate on Assisted Dying Bill Amid Episcopal Opposition

The Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill, which seeks to legalize assisted suicide in England and Wales, is currently under intense debate in the House of Lords after passing the House of Commons by a narrow margin. Prominent opponents, including the Bishop of London Dame Sarah Mullally and the Bishop of Newcastle Helen-Ann Hartley, have expressed grave concerns over the bill, citing risks to vulnerable individuals, inadequate safeguards, and the potential societal message that some lives are less valuable. Mullally, drawing on her experience as a nurse and former Chief Nursing Officer, emphasized the need for improved palliative and social care, warning that the bill offers an illusion of choice without such support. Hartley referenced New Zealand's experience with similar legislation, highlighting practical challenges and calls for reforms in oversight. Supporters, including Labour peer Lord Falconer and terminally ill advocate Dame Esther Rantzen, argue the bill is compassionate and will alleviate suffering, urging peers not to block it. The debate is historic with a record number of peers expected to speak, and the Lords have the power to reject the bill, which would delay legalization efforts potentially by a decade.