Assisted dying bill to run out of time as Lords hold final debate
Summary
A proposed law to legalize assisted dying for terminally ill adults in England and Wales is likely to run out of time in the current session of Parliament. The bill passed the House of Commons but is stuck in the House of Lords, with no more debate time scheduled. Supporters may try to introduce it again in the next Parliament session starting in May.Key Facts
- The assisted dying bill would allow adults expected to die within six months to seek medical help to end their life under safeguards.
- The House of Commons approved the bill last year with a majority vote.
- The House of Lords has delayed the bill, debating it extensively and proposing over 1,200 amendments.
- The current parliamentary session ends with no further scheduled debate, so the bill will likely expire soon.
- Supporters accuse opponents of delaying tactics, while opponents say the bill lacks sufficient safeguards.
- The bill's sponsor says they may try again in the next parliamentary session beginning May 13, with hopes to pass it through the Commons and reach agreement with the Lords.
- The Parliament Acts could allow the bill to become law without the Lords’ approval if it passes the Commons twice.
- Some peers support the principle of assisted dying but want better protections in the law before it is passed.
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