Bath MP urges government to review assisted dying laws across UK, following Parliamentary inquiry

29 February 2024

Wera Hobhouse, Liberal Democrat MP for Bath and Shadow Leader of the House, called on the government to take a “fresh look” at the assisted dying debate, following a Parliamentary inquiry that signalled the potential for new assisted dying laws.

On 29th February, Mrs Hobhouse called for the government to review its position on legalising assisted dying across the UK, following a report by the Health and Social Care Committee which deemed it likely for Jersey and the Isle of Man to pass new laws to allow assisted dying.

The Bath MP said that her position on assisted dying had changed over the years, having listened to different perspectives in the debate. She noted that there was overwhelming evidence to suggest that a safeguarded assisted dying law for mentally competent, terminally ill adults with a six-month life expectancy would be a step in the right direction. Her perspective has been especially influenced by an inspiring Bath resident, Pauline Caroll, who leads the Bath and Bristol Dignity in Dying campaign group.

While Mrs Hobhouse is sensitive to arguments in opposition to permitting assisted dying, she recognises that public opinion is largely in favour of a change in law. Two-thirds of the UK public support legalising assisted dying, helping a friend or loved one to maintain dignity in dying. In light of Thursday’s report, Wera Hobhouse asked the Leader of the House for a debate in government time to review the UK’s position on assisted dying.

Wera Hobhouse, Liberal Democrat MP for Bath and Shadow Leader of the House, commented:

“Legalising assisted dying is so important to allow people suffering in immense pain dignity in dying. I am very proud of the growing campaign in Bath to secure a much-needed change in law.

“I know that this topic is extremely emotive and difficult to discuss, but we must not shy away from the necessary conversation. The first step to enabling terminally ill people to die with strength and dignity is to take a fresh look at this debate in Parliament and take seriously the requests of those who are being left with no choice but to suffer against their wishes.”