UK assisted dying bill

Lord Falconer has introduced the Assisted Dying for Terminally Ill Adults Bill in the House of Lords, aiming to legalize assisted dying for adults with six months or less to live. This marks Falconer's seventh attempt to change assisted suicide laws, which have historically faced significant opposition in Parliament. The proposed legislation includes strict safeguards, requiring approval from two doctors and the High Court, and is focused solely on terminally ill patients. Health Secretary Wes Streeting has indicated that the time for debate on this issue has arrived, acknowledging the ethical and practical complexities involved. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Keir Starmer faces pressure to fulfill his promise of parliamentary time for a vote on assisted dying, with a Commons ballot scheduled for September. Pro-life advocates continue to oppose the bill, urging MPs to maintain the current legal framework regarding assisted dying.