Sir Keir Starmer has signalled he will continue to support the assisted dying bill as it returns to the House of Commons this week. The Prime Minister has remained steadfastly neutral on the matter, as the Government has insisted it should be decided by a conscience vote.
But he backed similar legislation in 2015 and voted in favour of the Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill at second reading in November. Speaking during a visit to Albania, the Prime Minister was asked if his views on assisted dying had changed. He told broadcasters: “This is a Private Member’s Bill and the Government is not taking a position in relation to it.
“What I would say is that from my own experience in this field, I dealt with it when I was the chief prosecutor, is that I do understand there are different views, strongly held views on both sides that have to be respected.”
Sir Keir, who has previously indicated support for legalising assisted dying, was pressed for his current opinion, and replied: “My views have been consistent throughout.”
Reports suggest the Prime Minister will miss the report stage debate due to take place in the Commons on Friday.
However, campaigners do not expect the vote to take place this week and the debate will likely roll over to next month.
The Daily Express Give Us Our Last Rights crusade supports efforts to legalise assisted dying for terminally ill people nearing the end of life.
The next stage of debate in Westminster comes after a similar bill in Scotland passed a stage one vote, indicating that a majority of MSPs support the principle of changing the law.
Liam McArthur MSP’s bill was backed by 70 MSPs. With 56 voting against it.
Ally Thomson, director of Dignity in Dying Scotland , said the landmark vote was “a watershed moment for compassion”.
She added: “The Scottish Parliament has listened to dying people and is reflecting their views.
“Many will be feeling overwhelming relief and gratitude that today our country has moved towards a safer and more compassionate law.
“So many people have stood up and spoken out about the harrowing suffering their loved ones endured as they died.
“While this is too late for them, it is now an enduring part of their legacy and testament to their courage in calling for change.”
