Legalizing assisted dying could lead to a significant increase in people choosing this option, according to former justice secretary.

On November 29, Labour MP Kim Leadbeater's proposed Bill on assisted dying will go to a vote in Parliament. This is a highly charged and emotional issue, and the outcome of the vote could have a significant impact on the lives of many people in the UK. Former Justice Secretary Lord Falconer has estimated that if the Bill passes, thousands of people in the UK could potentially end their own lives through assisted dying.

Lord Falconer, who served as Justice Secretary for four years under Tony Blair, is one of the most prominent supporters of Leadbeater's Bill. He believes that the time is right to legalize assisted dying and has stated that the number of people who may take advantage of this choice is difficult to predict. However, he estimates that it could potentially start with thousands of individuals.

The Terminally Ill Adults Bill would allow people over the age of 18 who are terminally ill and of sound mind to end their lives with the agreement of two independent doctors and a High Court judge. This will be the first time since 2015 that Parliament will vote on this issue, with the previous vote resulting in a 330 to 118 majority against changing the law.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer has announced that this will be a free vote, allowing each MP to make their own decision without being pressured by party whips. In a media event held in Conservative MP Andrew Mitchell's office, Leadbeater and other supporters of the Bill explained why they believe the time is right to legalize assisted dying and what the potential effects may be.

Lord Falconer has stated that after the law is up and running, the number of people using it may start slowly but could potentially reach thousands. This is based on the experiences of other countries that have legalized assisted dying. However, the exact number is difficult to predict and has never been officially stated.

One of the supporters of the Bill, Sally Talbot, an MP in the Parliament of Western Australia, shared that since the state legalized assisted dying in July 2021, over 1,851 people have requested it, and 738 have gone through with it. Leadbeater reflected on these statistics, stating that many people who have been through this process have shared that the relief it provides is tremendous. It allows them to make the most of their remaining time without the fear of what the end may look like.

As the debate approaches its final two weeks, many MPs are still undecided on the issue. Conservative MP Kit Malthouse, who is supporting the Bill, has observed a significant shift in attitudes since the last vote in 2015. However, ENT surgeon and newly elected Labour MP Peter Prinsley has stated that after conversations with his colleagues, he is not as confident about the Bill passing. He has noticed that older MPs are more likely to support it, while younger MPs are less inclined.

Leadbeater believes that this difference in opinion may be due to personal experiences. She noted that those who have been touched by this issue and have seen the current situation firsthand are more likely to understand the urgency of legalizing assisted dying. On the other hand, those who have not had a loved one go through this may not fully grasp the impact of the current laws.

Among the cabinet ministers who have stated that they will vote against the Bill are Justice Secretary Shabana Mahmood and Health Secretary Wes Streeting. Streeting has expressed concerns about the quality of palliative and end-of-life care and how it may affect people's choices.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer has stated that he will not pressure any MP to vote in a particular way and will personally study the details of the Bill. He has emphasized that safeguards are essential to him and were a crucial aspect of the guidelines he drew up during his time as chief prosecutor.

If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of assisted dying, there is support available. You can reach out to the Samaritans, a 24-hour emotional support helpline, by calling 116 123, emailing [email protected], or visiting their website. Their HOPELINE247 is also open 24/7 and can be reached at 0800 068 4141, through text at 88247, or via email at [email protected]. It's essential to know that you are not alone and that there is help available.

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