Dignity in Dying statement on Prime Minister’s comments on assisted dying

“The Prime Minister is right to highlight that too many people are being let down by our health and care systems. So too are dying people, under a ban on assisted dying that both the public and MPs agree is forcing people to endure unimaginable suffering as they die, or take drastic actions at home and abroad with no upfront safeguards. Improving health and social care is essential, but will not remove the need for choice at the end of life.

The Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill is the opportunity to change that. Parliament began the process of reforming this cruel, outdated law but was scuppered by a handful of unelected Lords intent on blocking change by any means necessary. Their action was an insult to our democracy. As the Bill returns in September, there is the chance to finish what we started and Parliament must grip it with both hands. 

This debate is no longer hypothetical and law change is not a distant prospect. Assisted dying laws are already coming to Jersey and the Isle of Man; to our neighbours in France. Experience the world-over proves that improving access to care as well as choice at the end of life is not only possible but complementary, improving protections for everyone no matter what they choose. 

The cost of Westminster failing to act on assisted dying is real, and will be felt by families across England and Wales. The Government’s commitment to fixing health and social care is crucial, but it can and must come alongside an assisted dying law that the public is crying out for, and that a majority of MPs have already approved. This is about life and death – but it’s also about democracy.”

*For more information, please contact Tom Steen, Media and Campaigns Officer, at tom.steen@dignityindying.org.uk or 07356135578*