Final Vote Nears on UK Assisted Dying Bill

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has declined requests from over 50 Labour MPs to delay the final Commons vote on the Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill, led by Labour MP Kim Leadbeater, set for a crucial third reading on Friday. The bill would allow terminally ill adults with less than six months to live to seek an assisted death. Starmer reiterated his support for assisted dying but emphasized that the government remains neutral and that MPs may vote according to conscience. Critics, including former Prime Minister Gordon Brown, argue the bill has been rushed, citing inadequate debate over its 133 amendments and unresolved concerns regarding palliative care and coercion of vulnerable groups. Polling reveals significant public concern, particularly among disabled people, about possible pressure to choose assisted dying. If approved, the bill will move to the House of Lords for further consideration.