MPs in the House of Commons reject a bid to legalise assisted dying for terminally ill adults in England and Wales. The Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill is defeated at second reading by 286 votes to 270, following a debate lasting more than four hours in which MPs on both sides make arguments and draw on personal experiences.
Supporters of the bill say it would allow mentally competent, terminally ill adults with fewer than six months to live to apply for an assisted death, with eligibility assessed by two doctors and an expert panel. The Guardian reports that some Labour MPs describe end-of-life experiences, while other outlets note supporters frame the change as giving people “dignity” and more control over the timing of death.
Opponents argue the safeguards are not strong enough and warn vulnerable people could face coercion or feel pressure to end their lives. Multiple sources cite concerns about people with mental illness or treatable depression, as well as criticism from religious leaders and medical organisations. Several outlets also note the government’s stance is neutral, allowing MPs to vote by conscience, and that previous attempts have failed to become law.
