Re: Assisted Dying
Dear constituents, readers and followers,
Thank you for your correspondence on the subject of ‘assisted dying’.
I am certain that you will agree that this is a highly complex issue with far reaching legal, moral and social implications.
Much has been written about this issue on both sides of the debate and the personal nature of this subject brings a rare depth of sentiment to a matter being discussed in Parliament. The Private Members’ Bill presented by Kim Leadbeater MP on October 16th is only the beginning of a process where the arguments for and against any changes to the existing legal framework will be debated.
Having had first-hand experience, within my own family, I am in favour of reform to the law in this area. This is a serious issue, and it should not be approached by either side with scaremongering or sensationalist headlines.
I believe that extending rights to those nearing the end of their lives in specific circumstance, such as with a terminal diagnosis of less than six months to live and in great pain, would be a step in the right direction but I will consider all arguments of course.
I accept that my position on this may or may not align with yours, but I was elected to use my judgement on a range of issues, including this extremely sensitive one.
I appreciate you reaching out to me, and if there is anything else that my office can be of assistance with then please do not hesitate to get in touch.
The Bill will be discussed and voted for/against on Friday 29th November 2024 - I will update this article in due course.
