Andy Burnham to abstain on assisted dying bill to avoid influencing debate
Summary
Prime Minister Andy Burnham has decided not to vote on the assisted dying bill to avoid influencing the debate in Parliament. He emphasized that the government will remain neutral and allow MPs to vote freely on this sensitive issue.Key Facts
- Andy Burnham will abstain from voting on the assisted dying bill during its second reading in the Commons.
- The bill allows adults with fewer than six months to live to apply for assisted dying with approval from two doctors and an expert panel.
- The government remains neutral, with MPs given a free vote due to the conscience matter.
- Burnham has personal views but feels the decision should be made by Parliament.
- Previous versions of the bill ran out of time due to many amendments.
- Keir Starmer supported an earlier version of the bill but mostly stayed neutral otherwise.
- Burnham has asked ministers not to try to influence the vote and to respect all views.
- The bill’s second reading is scheduled for 11 September.
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