Opposition to a bill which would legalise assisted dying in England and Wales is growing among MPs, the BBC has found. The Assisted Dying Bill wassupported by 330 MPs last year, passing its first major vote in the House of Commons with a majority of 55 MPs from a wide range of political parties. But at least a dozen MPs who backed it or abstained in November have now said they are likely to vote against it. The bill would allow terminally ill adults with less than six months to live to receive medical assistance to die Supporters remain confident it will eventually become law but it faces further parliamentary tests. The bill is a private members' bill, sponsored by backbench Labour MP Kim Leadbeater. MPs have been given a free vote on it, meaning they can decide based on their conscience rather than having to follow a party line. They have spent the past few months examining it in detail, with more than 500 amendments tabled. Some of these changes will be voted on by MPs next Friday - and a final Commons vote will take place in the summer, before it heads to the House of Lords for further scrutiny. Markus Campbell-Savours, the Labour MP for Penrith and Solway, is one of those who has said he's now likely to vote against the bill after previously supporting it. He said he still considers himself "a supporter of assisted dying" but believes the current bill crosses "red lines for protecting the vulnerable". "I want to see safeguards that will ensure that assisted dying is not overextended to include those in situations where there are alternative ways to improve the quality of their lives," said Campbell-Savours. "I would also be very concerned if legislation produced a situation where people who considered themselves a burden on their families and friends felt pressured to end their life." Fellow Labour MP Josh Fenton-Glynn also plans to vote no, having previously abstained. "If you'd asked me at any point in my life what I thought of assisted dying, I'd have always said in favour," he told the BBC. He has suggested a number of amendments to the bill, and claims he is "still open to supporting" the plans, but doubts it will change after Leadbeater blocked previous similar attempts. "We see quite a few of the amendments which are specifically aimed at stopping coercion being opposed by the supporters of the bill," he said, adding: "I don't think chances to make the bill safer have been taken." The two MPs have added their names to a growing list of their colleagues who have suggested they will switch sides including: Tory former minister George Freeman, Tory MPs Mike Wood and Andrew Snowden, Lib Dem Brian Matthew, Labour's Jonathan Hinder, Reform UK chief whip Lee Anderson and ex-Reform MP Rupert Lowe. Labour MP Debbie Abrahams and Tory MP Charlie Dewhirst, who abstained previously, will vote against. Labour's Karl Turner, who voted in favour at second reading, is now abstaining. Tory MP David Davis has not announced how he plans to cast his next vote, but has publicly backed a number of amendments that would make sweeping changes to the bill. Some MPs have also changed their stance, by supporting the bill. Minister Chris Bryant is understood to be backing it, having abstained in November. Labour MP Jack Abbott, who voted against last November, is also now likely to vote in favour. Others who were hesitantly supportive are now more firmly in favour. Liz Saville Roberts, the leader of Plaid Cymru at Westminster, said she was initially concerned but supported the principle of assisted dying. "I think the safeguards have got stronger," she said. "They have been improved through the bill committee and through the evidence that we heard." One of the changes made as the bill was scrutinised was allowing Senedd members a vote on whether it will apply in Wales. Despite opposition, supporters expect the bill to clear the Commons and go on to the House of Lords. Campaigners backing the bill do not expect many MPs to reverse their views - but with such tight margins, efforts to shore up support are in full swing. One major threat, for supporters of the bill, is MPs deciding to return home to their constituencies instead of voting. Due to a quirk of the parliamentary system, private members' bills are normally debated on Fridays - a day when MPs are normally in their constituencies. There is also growing concern that the government cannot afford to keep giving it parliamentary time. One Labour source told the BBC: "Given the huge amount of difficult issues the government face, from winter fuel payments and Personal Independence Payment to defence and special educational needs and disabilities spending, a tight vote on assisted dying becomes a real problem. "Lots of MPs think No 10 would be unwise to expend political capital continuing with this very divisive issue rather than choosing to fix the stuff we got elected to sort." Sign up for our Politics Essential newsletterto keep up with the inner workings of Westminster and beyond.
Growing number of MPs changing their mind on assisted dying
TruthLens AI Suggested Headline:
"Opposition to Assisted Dying Bill Grows Among MPs in England and Wales"
Bbc News
7.0
TruthLens AI Summary
Recent findings by the BBC indicate a significant shift among Members of Parliament (MPs) regarding the Assisted Dying Bill in England and Wales. Initially supported by 330 MPs last year, with a majority of 55 votes in favor during its first major vote, the bill now faces increasing opposition. At least a dozen MPs who previously supported or abstained from voting are now likely to oppose the legislation, which proposes allowing terminally ill adults with less than six months to live to receive medical assistance to die. The bill is backed by Labour MP Kim Leadbeater and is undergoing extensive scrutiny, with over 500 amendments proposed. A final vote in the House of Commons is expected in the summer, after which the bill will be sent to the House of Lords for further consideration. The free vote granted to MPs allows them to make decisions based on personal beliefs rather than party lines, which has contributed to the evolving opinions on the matter.
Among those shifting their stance is Labour MP Markus Campbell-Savours, who expressed concerns that the current bill lacks adequate safeguards for vulnerable individuals. He emphasized the need for protections to prevent assisted dying from being extended to those who might feel pressured due to their circumstances. Similarly, Labour MP Josh Fenton-Glynn has voiced his doubts about the bill's amendments, noting that efforts to enhance safety measures have been rejected by some supporters. A growing list of MPs, including former Tory minister George Freeman and several others from different parties, are indicating they will switch their votes against the bill. However, some MPs have also changed their positions to support the bill, highlighting the fluidity of opinions on this contentious issue. The potential for MPs to prioritize constituency work over voting is seen as a significant challenge for the bill's supporters, alongside concerns about the government's willingness to allocate parliamentary time to this divisive topic amidst other pressing issues.
TruthLens AI Analysis
The article sheds light on the shifting perspectives of Members of Parliament (MPs) regarding a bill aimed at legalizing assisted dying in England and Wales. It highlights a notable trend where some MPs, who previously supported the bill, are now expressing opposition due to concerns about the potential impact on vulnerable individuals. This change in stance could influence the legislative process surrounding the bill and the broader societal discourse on assisted dying.
Purpose of the Article
The intention behind the publication appears to be to inform the public about the evolving opinions of MPs on a contentious issue. By showcasing dissent among former supporters, the article may aim to evoke public debate and reflection on the ethical implications of assisted dying legislation. This could encourage constituents to engage with their representatives and voice their opinions on this sensitive topic.
Public Perception and Sentiment
The article likely seeks to cultivate a perception of caution regarding assisted dying legislation. By highlighting the concerns of MPs like Markus Campbell-Savours, who worry about the safety of vulnerable individuals, the article may aim to foster a sense of vigilance in the public. This could resonate particularly with groups advocating for the rights and protections of the elderly and disabled, suggesting that the conversation about assisted dying is complex and multifaceted.
Potential Omissions or Concealments
While the article presents a balanced view of the current situation, it may not delve deeply into the perspectives of those who support assisted dying legislation or the experiences of terminally ill individuals who may seek such options. By focusing on dissenting MPs, the article might unintentionally obscure the voices of advocates who argue for the compassionate provision of assisted dying.
Manipulative Elements
There is a degree of manipulation present in the framing of the narrative. The emphasis on the shift of MPs from support to opposition could sway public opinion by suggesting instability or moral uncertainty surrounding the bill. The language used, particularly around "protecting the vulnerable," may evoke emotional responses that align with a more conservative approach to end-of-life choices.
Comparison with Other News
When compared to similar news articles on assisted dying, this piece aligns with a trend of highlighting opposition and ethical concerns over legislative changes. This could reflect a broader media narrative that emphasizes caution over progressive reforms in sensitive issues.
Impact on Society, Economy, and Politics
The article could have ramifications for public discourse, potentially leading to increased scrutiny of assisted dying legislation and influencing public opinion. Politically, it may empower opposition parties to rally against the bill. The discourse surrounding assisted dying could also affect healthcare policies and funding, as the implications of such legislation extend to medical practices and ethical guidelines.
Support Base and Target Audience
This news piece is likely to resonate more with conservative and religious groups who may oppose assisted dying. It may also appeal to families and caregivers concerned about the implications of such legislation on vulnerable individuals. The article's tone and focus suggest it is aimed at readers who are apprehensive about the potential consequences of legalizing assisted dying.
Financial Market Implications
In terms of market impact, this news may not have direct effects on stock prices but could influence healthcare companies involved in palliative care or end-of-life services. Investors may monitor the legislative environment and public sentiment around assisted dying as part of broader healthcare trends.
Global Power Dynamics
While the article primarily focuses on a domestic issue, it reflects broader global conversations about assisted dying and euthanasia. As countries grapple with similar debates, the outcomes in England and Wales could set precedents for legislative approaches elsewhere, particularly in Western democracies.
Use of Artificial Intelligence
There is no clear indication that artificial intelligence was used in the writing of this article. It appears to be a traditional news piece, likely crafted by human journalists. However, if AI were employed, it might have influenced the choice of language and framing to encourage particular emotional responses or to optimize engagement.
The overall reliability of this article can be considered moderate. It provides factual information regarding the shift in MP opinions but may lean towards framing that emphasizes caution and opposition, potentially influencing public perception. The narrative could benefit from a more balanced exploration of both sides of the assisted dying debate, including the voices of those advocating for legislative change.