More than 100 Labour MPs call on PM to stop assisted dying bill being blocked
Over 100 Labour MPs urge Prime Minister Keir Starmer to prevent the House of Lords from blocking the assisted dying bill, stressing the need for more parliamentary time.
More than 100 Labour MPs have expressed their concern regarding the assisted dying bill, urging Prime Minister Keir Starmer to intervene in the House of Lords' actions that threaten to block the legislation. The bill, sponsored by Kim Leadbeater, is facing delays as the Lords have introduced numerous amendments, which have stalled its progression. As the parliamentary session is set to close in May, the MPs fear the bill will fail to return to the House of Commons without further discussion and debate.
The call for action comes as a response to the perceived need for leadership on a matter that resonates well with the public, highlighting the widespread support for assisted dying. Several ministerial aides are reportedly echoing this sentiment, having communicated their concerns to Starmer as well. They emphasize the opportunity for Starmer to demonstrate his leadership and commitment to the elected House of Commons' will by addressing this critical issue before time runs out.
Opposition to the bill, however, has grown, with over 1,200 amendments submitted by critics who argue that their intention is not to deliberately filibuster but to ensure a thorough examination of the legislation. This opposition raises important questions about the balance of power between the House of Commons and House of Lords and the complexities involved in passing significant social reforms like assisted dying legislation.