Vote on assisted dying pushed back

MPs have successfully pushed back the vote on the Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill from April 25 to May 16, with the delay giving MPs more time to consider changes. Kim Leadbeater, the Bill’s sponsor, said: “I have listened carefully to members on all sides of the issue who have told me that they would welcome more time to consider the amendments made to the Bill in committee.” The Bill, which aims to provide assisted dying for terminally ill adults with less than six months to live, has sparked significant debate, with supporters advocating for dignity in dying, while critics warn of potential abuses and pressures on vulnerable individuals. Ms Leadbeater recently said 150 amendments have been adopted to the bill, including the requirement for a High Court judge’s involvement being scrapped and replaced with a voluntary assisted dying commissioner. Meanwhile, Health Secretary Wes Streeting told BBC Radio 4’s Today programme that while he will not be voting in favour of the bill, he welcomes “the constructive approach that Kim Leadbeater has taken.”