Assisted Dying and the Parliament Act

The conversation around the Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill is one that many people across Newbury and West Berkshire have contacted me about. I know just how deeply these issues are felt, and I want to thank everyone who has taken the time to write to me, share their personal stories, and voice their views.

I recently met with the team from Dignity in Dying at my office to receive their petition. It was a moving experience to hear their perspective firsthand, and I know that for many, there is a real sense of urgency behind this campaign. However, as the Bill reaches a critical point in Parliament, we have to look closely at the process being used to change our laws.

Recent reports suggest the Bill is likely to fall in the current session because it has run out of time to complete its stages in the House of Lords. This means that if the legislation is to move forward, it would need to be reintroduced in a new session of Parliament to start the process again.

There has been talk of using the Parliament Act to bypass the Lords and force the Bill through. While I understand this will be disappointing for those who want to see the law change quickly, I firmly believe that using such an option is not the right path for a matter of this magnitude.

Why the process matters

The need for scrutiny: The House of Lords exists to be a revising chamber. With over 1,200 amendments currently tabled, it is clear there are significant concerns about ensuring any new law is safe, workable, and contains the right safeguards. We cannot afford to rush legislation that is as complex and sensitive as this.

Constitutional integrity: The Parliament Act is traditionally reserved for government legislation that was promised in an election manifesto. It has never been used for a Private Member’s Bill, and using it for a matter of individual conscience would be a major departure from our democratic traditions.

Neutrality: On "free vote" issues like this, the Government must remain neutral. Facilitating the Parliament Act would undermine that balance and the essential role that both Houses play in our democracy.

I know this news will be difficult for many to hear, and I truly empathise with those who feel that the current system is failing them. However, a change to the law of this significance must be built on consensus and exhaustive debate, rather than by circumventing the very processes designed to keep our legislation robust and fair.

I will continue to listen to all sides of this debate as we look toward the next steps in the new session.