LONDON − On Friday, lawmakers in Britain’s parliament endorsed a new bill that would allow assisted dying, igniting a period of intense debate about dignity at the end of life and how we care for the dying.

In the initial vote, 330 members of parliament supported the “Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life)” bill, while 275 opposed it. This legislation would give mentally competent, terminally ill adults in England and Wales—who have a medical assessment indicating they have six months or less to live—the right to choose assisted dying.

If passed, this would mark a significant shift in British law, aligning the country with nations like Australia, Canada, and several states in the U.S. that have implemented similar measures, representing one of the largest social reforms in decades.

Despite the initial agreement, the bill could still be amended or rejected during its progression through both the House of Commons and the House of Lords, the unelected upper house of parliament.

“This will be a comprehensive process,” said Kim Leadbeater, the Labour MP who brought forward the bill to the BBC, noting that the discussions could last at least another six months.

“We have ample time to ensure everything is correct,” she added after a lengthy four-hour debate filled with emotion.

Supporters argue that the bill is about allowing terminally ill individuals to have control over their death and reducing their suffering.

Critics worry that vulnerable patients might feel pressured to end their own lives for fear of burdening their families or society, rather than focusing on their own health needs.

Some also voiced concerns that there hasn’t been adequate time for thorough consideration of the bill prior to the vote and noted that some safeguards in other jurisdictions that allow assisted dying have been weakened.

“We will have further chances to improve this proposal, and if we can’t, I hope it will be rejected,” said Conservative MP Danny Kruger, a vigorous opponent, in an interview with Sky News, expressing skepticism that a safe bill could be crafted.

Leadbeater has pledged that the proposed legislation would contain the strictest safeguards in the world. Under the current plan, the approval of two doctors and a High Court judge would be necessary to confirm that a person has made their choice voluntarily. Coercion or pressure to end one’s life would be punishable by a prison term of up to 14 years.

Emotional Discussions Surrounding the Assisted Dying Bill

The proposal has ignited a national conversation in Britain, drawing in former prime ministers, faith leaders, medical professionals, judges, and ministers from Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s Labour government.

Starmer himself supported the bill, although a number of senior government figures voted against it. Surveys indicate that a majority of the British public favors assisted dying.

Foreign Secretary David Lammy expressed his opposition, stating he believes politics should focus on “extending life, not shortening it,” while former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak stated he supported the legislation, viewing it as a means of alleviating suffering.

This proposed legislation would alter the current laws in England and Wales, while Scotland is also contemplating a similar change, though no such proposals exist for Northern Ireland.

Supporters of assisted dying gathered outside parliament on Friday, closely monitoring the vote results on their phones. When the outcome was announced, many reacted with hugs, cheers, and tears.

“I am overwhelmed with joy, but also extremely emotional,” stated Liz Reed, 38, wiping her tears. “I hope this outcome brings something positive from such a painful situation.”

Leadbeater expressed her appreciation for the passionate yet respectful nature of the discussion, including viewpoints from the opposition.

“It’s deeply emotional, and that sentiment resonates with many,” she stated. “I’m relieved that we are able to honor these diverse perspectives here today, and we can continue this conversation moving forward.”