A LOCAL MP says she backed a Bill which could legalise assisted dying because she believes in “dignity in death”.
Labour’s Sarah Edwards – who represents the Tamworth constituency which includes Whittington, Shenstone, Stonnall and Fazeley – was one 314 MPs who backed the Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill. It passed with a majority of 23.
It will now pass on to the House of Lords for further debate and scrutiny.
Ms Edwards said:
“Thank you to all who contacted me, especially those who shared personal experiences.
“I’ve listened carefully to all sides and, as before, I voted in favour of the Bill.
“I believe in dignity in death – and that choice should not depend on the ability to travel abroad.
“The Bill applies only to those who are terminally ill, mentally capable and expected to die within six months. It offers choice and comfort without replacing high-quality palliative care.
“I’m pleased it passed its third reading and I will follow its progress in the Lords.”
Lichfield’s Labour MP Dave Robertson also backed the Bill.
He said he had made the decision “after careful thought”:
“All of us understand this is a really emotive issue and one we absolutely all want to make sure we absolutely get right.
“There’s been a split of MPs and I know there’s a split of opinions out there in the public too.
“I voted to support the Bill because I think what we’ve got is a potential piece of legislation which will update some really out of date laws, but also offer protections to those who need them.
“I know not everybody in the constituency will agree with me, and that’s fine – and I know that a lot of people will be really happy to see a change in the law, and that’s fine as well.
“I’m proud that the debate has carried on out there in the constituency and across the country. It hasn’t got negative, insulting or aggressive as something so emotionally charged easily can.”
