Today, after much reflection and many conversations with constituents and experts, I voted in favour of The Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill. This was not a decision I took lightly, but I believe it was the right one for a number of reasons.
At its core, I view this Bill as being about respecting personal choice. When faced with a terminal illness, many individuals experience immense suffering and loss of control over their own lives. In these situations, I believe it should not be up to the state to dictate when or how someone should end their suffering. The decision should belong to the individual, and it should be made based on their values and wishes, not the law.
I understand this is a deeply emotional issue, and many people feel strongly about it. Some will disagree with me, and I respect that. But, for me, it’s about giving people with terminal illnesses the option to choose, with the dignity and respect they deserve. I believe we cannot deny someone with a terminal illness the right to make that choice when they are facing unimaginable pain.
I am, however, fully aware of the need for strong safeguards to ensure that the choice to end life is made with the utmost care and consideration, free from coercion, and I wholeheartedly believe that this Bill includes sufficient protections. The requirement for approval from two independent doctors and a High Court judge will ensure that the decision is voluntary, well-informed, and made by someone who is fully capable of making it.
While many will be pleased, and others disappointed, with the result of the vote, I want to assure you that I remain committed to improving end-of-life care for everyone. This Bill addresses the right of an individual with a terminal illness of less than six months to live, the right to choose to end their life, but I believe we must continue to work towards ensuring that all people receive the highest quality of care in their final days, regardless of their choices.
Thank you to everyone who discussed this issue with me, and in particular to those who shared some deeply personal, and incredibly moving stories of loss with me.
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