British lawmakers give initial approval to a bill to allow terminally ill adults to end their lives
Written by on November 30, 2024
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LONDON (AP) — British lawmakers gave initial approval on Friday to a bill to help terminally ill adults end their lives in England and Wales, following an impassioned debate.
Members of Parliament approved the assisted dying bill by a 330-275 vote, signaling their approval in principle for the bill, which will undergo further scrutiny before it goes to a final vote.
Friday’s vote came after hours of debate — emotional at times — that touched on issues of ethics, faith and law. There was no braying and shouting that often marks debates in the House of Commons and speeches were considered respectfully and heard in silence.
Supporters said the law would provide dignity to the dying and prevent suffering, while protecting the vulnerable.
Evangelical leaders, British clergy, former prime ministers and advocates for the elderly and the disabled are all urged a NO vote.
They warn that a so-called “right to die” can very quickly become a “duty to die” for the most vulnerable people in society.
The proposed bill would allow adults over the age of 18 who are expected to have fewer than six months to live to request and be provided help to end their life, subject to several safeguards.
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