Hundreds of people have contacted me to share views on the Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill ahead of a Parliamentary vote on 29 November 2024.
While I am unable to attend the vote in person due to a long-standing commitment with the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, I felt it important to share my position on this.
I came to this issue with an open mind. Over the past few weeks, I have taken the time to listen and consider correspondence from local residents for whom this is a really significant issue. I have also sought to understand both sides of the argument, including attending events in Parliament with medical experts and charities.
There were many powerful testimonies and, as you will appreciate, this is a complex and emotive issue with strongly held ethical and moral views on both sides as demonstrated by the emails and letters I have received - and continue to receive.
Taking all of this into account, I am supportive of the Bill. This has not been an easy decision to come to and I’d like to thank everyone who shared their thoughts with me, which have helped inform my position. Should this Bill pass this stage, there will be future readings which I plan to attend and vote in.
Ultimately, whether this Bill is passed or not, we must ensure that high-quality palliative and end of life care receives adequate funding and the support it deserves. Each person nearing the end of their life should feel reassured and safe in the knowledge they will receive the very best care.
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