Burnham says he will not vote on assisted dying unlike Starmer
Summary
Prime Minister Andy Burnham has said he will not vote on the assisted dying bill for England and Wales, unlike his predecessor, Sir Keir Starmer, who supported it. He wants Parliament to decide the law and is encouraging a free vote without his influence.Key Facts
- The assisted dying bill allows adults over 18 expected to die within six months to get help ending their life under strict rules.
- The bill passed the House of Commons last year but was delayed in the House of Lords due to many amendments.
- Burnham has personal views but will remain neutral and not vote to avoid influencing the debate as prime minister.
- Starmer supported the bill when he was prime minister but did not campaign for it.
- Ministers can vote as they wish but should avoid public comments related to their government departments.
- Supporters want the Commons to pass the bill without changes to avoid delays in the Lords.
- Opponents have introduced many amendments, slowing the bill’s progress.
- A similar assisted dying bill was rejected by the Scottish Parliament in March 2026.
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