Summary
More than 100 Labour MPs have urged Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer to prioritize passing the assisted dying bill currently stalled in the House of Lords. The bill, which aims to legalize assisted dying in England and Wales, has faced numerous amendments and opposition, making its passage within the current parliamentary session unlikely. Labour MPs emphasize the importance of allowing Parliament to decide on the bill to maintain public trust in politics.
Key Facts
- Over 100 Labour MPs have sent letters asking for more time to debate the assisted dying bill.
- The assisted dying bill passed the House of Commons in June last year but is stalled in the House of Lords.
- There are more than 1,200 amendments to the bill, mainly from those against it.
- Only three of the 14 debate days in the Lords remain, with many amendments still not discussed.
- Labour MP Jess Asato opposes the bill, pointing out flaws in the proposed law.
- The bill must pass before the current session ends, likely by May, or it will fail.
- Around 150 total MPs across parties have expressed support for the bill to receive more attention.
- The UK government remains neutral on the bill, leaving the decision to Parliament.
