First Things Podcast Pope and Parliament
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Sep 25, 2025 Join Dan Hitchens, a senior editor with keen insights into British politics and Catholic affairs, as he dives into the UK's controversial assisted suicide bill. He outlines the stakes involved and the curious dynamics between the Commons and the Lords. Hitchens also discusses Pope Leo's calming early pontificate, his approach to LGBTQ issues, and the emotional impact of Charlie Kirk's memorial service, revealing how younger conservative leaders are intertwining faith with public life.
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Legislation Can Redefine Medical Care
- Assisted-dying laws can reshape medical norms and pressure vulnerable people toward death.
- Dan Hitchens warns Britain risks a Canada-like descent where death becomes a policy solution for social costs.
Upper Chamber’s Scrutiny Matters
- The House of Lords brings deep legislative scrutiny compared with a sometimes inexperienced Commons.
- Lords' experts exposed drafting gaps and practical implementation failures in the bill.
Weak Safeguards Undermine Safety Claims
- Safeguards in the bill look weak and politically hollow.
- Experts like former NHS executives argued promised reviews would be ineffective 'marking their own homework'.