Latest update on the Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill

Today Luke Myer MP was in Parliament to vote on the next stage of assisted dying legislation.

The Bill is in the ‘Report Stage’ – where MPs consider the various amendments to the Bill. The Speaker selected over 100 amendments, grouped together into two omnibus groups.

Today’s focus was on the obligations, duties and protections for professionals. There were three key votes:

Closure Motion
To bring amendments to a vote, move on to the next group of amendments, and keep the Bill progressing.
Luke voted: for
Parliament voted: for

New Clause 10(a)
To allow particular settings to choose to opt out of assisted dying services being provided by their staff.
Luke voted: for
Parliament voted: against

New Clause 10
To ensure there is no obligation on any professional to take part in assisted dying if they do not want to – including specific protections for healthcare workers, social care workers and pharmacists.
Luke voted: for
Parliament voted: majority in favour, but decision postponed to 13 June

Luke spoke to BBC Tees this morning, where he said:

“I support the principle of the Bill, but I think the details and the safeguards are really important. I won’t support anything that I feel doesn’t have robust enough safeguards throughout the process.”

“I’m listening carefully – I feel this really deeply. I’ve heard from constituents with strong views on both sides of the debate. I’m listening to them, to experts, and doctors.”

“I haven’t made a final decision on the Bill – I’m considering it very carefully at each stage as it moves forward.”

The Bill will now be debated at Report Stage for a second day (13 June). If it passes, it will return to the House for a vote at third reading on 20 June. If it passes third reading, it will go to the House of Lords to begin scrutiny.