Starmer Commits to Conscience Vote on Assisted Dying Amid Delay Speculations

Starmer reaffirms commitment to conduct assisted dying vote, suggesting it may occur within a year

This divisive issue has been discussed in parliament, with ex-BBC host Dame Esther Rantzen actively speaking out following her diagnosis with cancer. The Prime Minister has assured a vote on the matter, allowing MPs to vote according to their personal beliefs.

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Friday, July 12, 2024, 12:

Sir Keir Starmer has firmly reiterated his commitment to allowing a free vote on assisted dying at a later date.

The newly appointed prime minister has not provided a specific timetable for potentially altering legislation, suggesting that it might not happen within the next year.

He believes that Members of Parliament will have the freedom to vote according to their personal beliefs instead of following party directives.

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During his visit to NATO in the US, the newly appointed prime minister was questioned about the timing of the previously promised referendum on the issue.

He stated, "My comment was about allocating time for this through a private member's bill, clearly."

A private member's bill refers to a legislative proposal introduced by a Member of Parliament (MP) in the House of Commons, which is not sponsored by the government.

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The Prime Minister stated, "A free vote will take place – that continues to be my stance for the reasons I have explained.

"Given my role as the former director of public prosecutions, I have likely dealt with more cases personally than many others, having reviewed dozens during my tenure."

"Regarding when it will happen, I haven't decided yet, and I'd rather not commit at this moment because we need to establish our priorities for the initial year or so."

"I am firmly committed to ensuring that this happens. We will allocate time for a private member's bill. There will be an unrestricted vote."

A free vote allows Members of Parliament to cast their ballots based on their own convictions or beliefs, rather than following party directives.

This is often seen in discussions related to health, faith, or military involvement.

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Discover further: Starmer commits to a vote on assisted dying in honor of Dame Esther, alongside five impactful stories from the assisted dying discussion.

The discussion around assisted dying has intensified recently, spurred by remarks made by Dame Esther Rantzen.

The host of That's Life! disclosed her enrollment at the Swiss Dignitas clinic following her diagnosis with stage four lung cancer.

She expressed her conviction that it's "essential for legislation to align with the public's wishes" regarding the legalization of assisted dying.

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Over 200,000 individuals endorsed a petition advocating for a referendum on assisted dying, leading to a parliamentary debate on the issue in late April.

Numerous individuals recounted experiences of losing family members and close friends, which shaped their perspectives on the issue of assisted dying.

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