Birmingham reacts with heartbreaking stories as assisted dying law passes first hurdle
A historic vote in favour of assisted dying has divided opinions in Birmingham - with some praising the decision while others expressed fears it could be a 'slippery slope'. MPs have today voted by 330 votes to 275 in favour of a bid to legalise assisted dying.
The Bill, brought forward by Labour MP Kim Leadbeater, would allow terminally ill adults in England and Wales with less than six months to live to end their lives, subject to the approval of two doctors and a High Court judge. The legislation, which passed its second reading with a majority of 55, will undergo further scrutiny in the Commons, and eventually the Lords, before it can become law.
As expected, the controversial and 'emotional' debate has sparked mixed views from readers. Those who have seen loved ones suffer first hand branded the move "great news".
Cassie Wilson said: "This is great news in my view! If you have the capacity to make that decision it should be accepted! Animals are not left to suffer like we are." Julie Beard added: "It's a step in the right direction will save us and them a fortune in inadequate poor care and let those poor souls have a release who are suffering."
Ruth Lenton commented: "Brilliant news. Takes away the stress for families who would see their loved ones suffer, like I did." Shauna Russon also opened up on the "totally horrendous" experience of her mother's passing. She said: "My mum suffered a horrible death from cancer and went from a strong woman to an absolute shadow of what she was before.
"It should be family and not MPs making the decision you wouldn't put an animal through what my mum went through and we had to watch it, totally horrendous." However, many were left questioning how it would work, from insurance policies to sufficient safeguarding of the vulnerable.
"If this becomes law assisted suicide, tell me where does the insurance companies stand in all this," asked Sheila Nock. "Do they still pay out on your policy or if you don’t take up the offer, will they stop paying for your care? And what is put on the death certificate?"
Fee Fee added: "Sad times. A slippery slope. A very difficult subject and I don't have all the answers but I predict a future of ill and elderly people feeling obliged to die. This can never be safeguarded sufficiently." Keir Starmer voted in favour of assisted dying, as did Chancellor Rachel Reeves, Home Secretary Yvette Cooper, Defence Secretary John Healey and Work and Pensions Secretary Liz Kendall. Cabinet Ministers Angela Rayner, David Lammy, Shabana Mahmood, Wes Streeting, Bridget Phillipson and Jonathan Reynolds opposed the Bill.
Rishi Sunak voted in favour but his successor Kemi Badenoch opposed it, as did Lib Dem leader Ed Davey. Ms Leadbeater told Sky News: "Well, I'm nearly in floods because it's a really emotional process. But I'm incredibly proud - I think today we've seen parliament at its best."
Emotions ran high during the debate as Ms Leadbeater recounted stories of people who had watched their loved ones suffer painful and drawn-out deaths. She told MPs: "I know that this is not easy. It certainly hasn't been easy for me. But if any of us wanted an easy life, I'm afraid we are in the wrong place. It is our job to address complex issues and make difficult decisions."
Have you been affected by this topic? We would like to hear your thoughts and experiences. You can contact us by emailing stephanie.balloo@reachplc.com