

Can the assisted dying bill survive?
7 snips May 16, 2025
Lucy Dunn chats with Rajiv Shah, a former Special Advisor to the Attorney General, and James Heale, a seasoned writer for The Spectator. They delve into the heated debate over Labour MP Kim Leadbeater's assisted dying bill, which faces dwindling support in Parliament. The discussion highlights the bill's contentious amendments, lingering concerns from medical bodies, and the complex implications for future healthcare practices. With the political stakes high, they question whether Starmer should hinge his legacy on this polarizing issue.
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Shifting Parliamentary Support
- Support for the assisted dying bill is shifting away in Parliament compared to earlier stages.
- More MPs express concerns about the bill's safety, workability, and operability.
Key MP Concerns on Bill
- Major causes of MP opposition include extensive bill changes and concerns over expert panels replacing court safeguards.
- Issues like conscience rights and the sponsor's conduct affect the political atmosphere around the bill.
Bill's Consultation and Amendment Issues
- The bill lacks detailed consultation on expert panels and workforce readiness, creating uncertainty.
- If passed, the bill may be drastically amended in the House of Lords due to its current flaws.