After weeks of debating, MPs began the formal scrutiny of the proposed bill that would allow terminally ill adults expected to die within six months to seek help to end their own life. This sparked a sea of protests from both sides of Parliament with campaigners gathering outside Parliament Square wearing pink hats in support of Dignity in Dying led by Labour MP Kim Leadbeater, whilst those opposed to the bill carried a 10ft puppet of a severe judge with a giant syringe. Inside Parliament, Kim Leadbeater opened the debate of her bill with proceedings generally being respectful and contemplative. However, outside Parliament, tempers started to fray as the two sides clashed with campaigners on both sides having their own personal tale for being there.
Campaigners in favor of the bill have cared for people in their final stages of their lives and have listened to their desperate pleas to end their suffering, whilst those against the bill include people with disabilities. The debate led to arguments and tension outside Parliament, between those in opposition and those in support of the bill, where campaigners presented graphic photos of their family members and friends.
As the debate finally concluded, MPs proceeded to vote with some already knowing the outcome due to a screen updating in real-time with the number of MPs voting. Supporters of the bill erupted into celebrations outside Parliament, reaction in the opposing camp was more muted. For MPs debating the proposals within the House of Commons, it was a day of being whipsawed by powerful arguments and strong emotions on both sides, which were reflected in the final vote count: 267-213, a slim margin. However, it was good news for those campaigners who had been pushing for legislation that would allow assisted dying.
Kim Leadbeater’s proposed law, if successful, will mean terminally ill adult patients will be legally allowed to obtain medical assistance to end their life within six months of their death. As the debate progresses, it’s likely to take some time for the bill to become law, with strong arguments we can expect plenty of opposition in the coming months. This first win for the Anti-Dying lobby has put supporters on high alert, proud of their win but cognisant that there’s a long way to go
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