You may have seen in the news that MPs will soon vote on whether or not to take the first step towards legalising assisted suicide. The Bill that MPs will vote on has recently been published, and I am sharing a copy so my constituents can take a look at what it says.
This is an important and sensitive issue, and the vote will rightly be a matter of conscience for individual MPs. This is a subject I have thought long and hard about since knowing the Bill was likely to come before Parliament. I have spoken to people with different views on the subject: those who work in care and healthcare, faith leaders and constituents. Ultimately, I think it’s unlikely that I will support a change in the law.
This is for a few reasons. Firstly, I can’t personally see a way in which taking a life could be aligned with my Christian faith. I know that some other people of faith might feel differently.
I am also concerned that if the law was changed, some of the most vulnerable people in society – including the poor, and mentally ill – would feel ‘browbeaten’ into ending their lives, or like a burden to others.
Although this initial change in the law would apply to terminally ill people only, our communities, families and society would be forever changed by this shift in the relationship when it comes to assisted dying being sanctioned by the state. I worry about this first step opening the door to further legislative changes in future, where more people might feel compelled to have their life ended medically.
I know that some people will disagree with me, but I believe that constituents would rather I was open about my own personal view, based on my conscience, research and conversations I have had, before I vote.
I still want to hear from more constituents, however, before I make a final decision. If you live in Heywood and Middleton North and have a view you want to share with me, please do email me. I would be glad to hear from you about this important issue.
You can read the bill here: