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Why are MPs voting on assisted dying again?

Why are MPs voting on assisted dying again?

Summary

Members of Parliament (MPs) in the UK will vote again on a bill that would allow adults with fewer than six months to live to request help to end their own life. This bill includes rules like requiring approval from two doctors and an expert panel. The vote is expected to be close, and if passed again by the Commons, it could become law even without approval from the House of Lords.

Key Facts

  • The bill is called the Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill and applies to England and Wales.
  • It allows terminally ill adults with less than six months to live to apply for assisted dying.
  • Safeguards include needing approval from two doctors and a special expert panel.
  • The bill passed the House of Commons in June 2023 but stalled in the House of Lords due to many amendments.
  • If the bill passes the Commons again with the same wording, it could bypass the House of Lords using the Parliament Acts.
  • The Parliament Acts let the Commons make a law without the Lords’ agreement after two sessions if the bill is unchanged.
  • Opponents worry this could create unsafe laws and have voiced concerns about vulnerable groups.
  • The vote will happen on a day when many MPs are usually away in their home areas, making attendance crucial.
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