Assisted Dying Legislation: Divided Opinions and Historical Context

Today, in a historic vote, MPs have voted in favour of a bill to legalise assisted dying in England and Wales. After five hours of emotional debate the bill passed with 330 in favour to 275 against, at the first stage in the Commons. Before the bill can become law it will face further scrutiny, and the first cases are not expected for at least two years. James and Chris are joined by Vicki Young, deputy political editor, and Fergus Walsh, medical editor.

You can now listen to Newscast on a smart speaker. If you want to listen, just say "Ask BBC Sounds to play Newscast”. It works on most smart speakers. You can join our Newscast online community here: https://tinyurl.com/newscastcommunityhere Newscast brings you daily analysis of the latest political news stories from the BBC. It was presented by James Cook. It was made by Jack Maclaren. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The assistant editor is Chris Gray. The editor is Sam Bonham.