In a landmark decision, the UK House of Commons has passed legislation that could pave the way for the legalization of assisted dying for terminally ill patients in England and Wales. On June 20, Members of Parliament voted 314 to 291 in favor of the Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill, marking the first time such a proposal has cleared the Commons.
The bill would allow mentally competent adults diagnosed with a terminal illness and given six months or less to live to request life-ending medication through the National Health Service. Patients would be required to undergo a two-stage approval process involving two independent doctors and a multidisciplinary review panel consisting of a legal advisor, a psychiatrist, and a social worker.
Supporters of the bill, including Labour MP Kim Leadbeater, argue it offers a compassionate and controlled option for individuals experiencing prolonged suffering. Prime Minister Keir Starmer expressed support for the legislation, reflecting recent polling that shows nearly three-quarters of the British public back the idea of assisted dying.
Opponents, however, have voiced strong concerns. Advocacy groups such as Care Not Killing and religious leaders argue the bill risks placing undue pressure on vulnerable patients, including the elderly and disabled. They also warn of potential abuse and insufficient safeguards.
In response, the bill’s authors have introduced several provisions to enhance oversight. These include a mandatory reflection period between evaluations, the appointment of independent advocates for patients with cognitive or mental health conditions, and a one-year review of the bill’s impact on palliative care services.
The legislation will now move to the House of Lords for further debate and possible amendments. While the Lords cannot block the bill indefinitely, they may propose changes that would require additional Commons approval. If enacted, the law could come into force by 2029, with government estimates anticipating 4,500 to 7,500 assisted dying requests per year.
The UK now joins a growing number of jurisdictions re-examining end-of-life options. Similar laws exist in several U.S. states including Oregon and California, as well as in Canada, Australia, and parts of Europe.
