Former UK leaders clash over new end-of-life care legislation
A heated debate erupts as politicians take opposing sides on assisted-dying legislation. The bill which aims to change end-of-life care rules gets mixed response from current and former UK leaders
Kim Leadbeater started a hot debate when she talked about her new end-of-life bill‚ saying that not wanting to be a burden could be ok as a reason for assisted dying (which made many people worried about the bills safety rules)
There is an argument that having personal choice and autonomy is part of the whole process
Rachael Maskell hit back at these ideas pointing out that society might push people into thinking its selfish not to choose assisted dying; while an independent medical group will start work next month to look at better ways to help sick people
The bill debate is set for this friday but with over 100 MPs wanting to speak and just 5 hours to do it many wont get their chance. Boris Johnson said the whole thing needs a do-over: he thinks its too big a change to rush through without proper checking
- The bill needs more time for checking
- Current rules dont allow enough debate
- Big social changes need proper planning
- Similar to marriage law changes back then
In a surprise move David Cameron changed his mind and now backs the bill saying its got good safety rules and wont put extra stress on the NHS. The ex-PM doesnt think it will make weak people feel forced to end their lives early
The new plan has created a split between politicians – some think its moving too fast while others say its time for change. A group of MPs (at least seven of them) have made a special rule to try and stop the bill right at the start of fridays debate
