MPs Debate Assisted Dying Bill, Palliative Care Amendments UK-Wide

Kim Leadbeater, the MP sponsoring the assisted dying bill for England and Wales, has emphasized that the current legislation is stronger after removing the High Court judge's role, making the process more patient-centred and ensuring legal expertise remains involved. Esther Rantzen, a broadcaster with stage-four lung cancer, and medical professionals have urged MPs to back the bill, highlighting the suffering caused by existing laws and clarifying that vulnerable groups, including those with mental health conditions or anorexia, are excluded. Leadbeater has also pledged support for an amendment proposed by Marie Curie and other MPs to commission a government assessment of palliative and end-of-life care, addressing concerns about the quality and availability of care and aiming to improve services alongside legal reform. Despite support from the Scottish Parliament for a similar assisted dying bill, the Royal College of Psychiatrists has expressed serious concerns about safeguards for people with mental illness and the capacity of the healthcare system to meet the bill's demands, urging MPs to consider these issues carefully. The debate continues with MPs closely watching amendments and the potential impact on vulnerable populations, while advocates stress the bill is a carefully considered and compassionate response to current injustices in end-of-life care.