Island MPs share concern over Assisted Dying Bill after House of Commons vote
THE Isle of Wight MPs have expressed concern over the passing of the Assisted Dying Bill.
The bill, which was backed by a majority of MPs, allows terminally ill adults with a life expectancy of less than six months to end their lives.
Despite warnings from opponents about the safety of the legislation, the bill took another step in the parliamentary process after being approved by 314 votes to 291 in the House of Commons yesterday (Friday).
Labour's Isle of Wight West MP, Richard Quigley, consistently voted against the bill at every stage.
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Following the news of its passing, Richard said: "This bill was always going to be emotional, but it was never about winning or losing, but having the chance to debate.
"We have done that and the bill has now passed.
"My opposition is based on the belief the safeguards, particularly around the so-called 'anorexia loophole,' are not robust or comprehensive enough."
He urged the House of Lords to apply "rigorous scrutiny" to the bill as it progresses.
Richard stressed the importance of examining every aspect of its implementation, paying close attention to the risks and unresolved unintended consequences.
The Isle of Wight East MP, Joe Robertson, also voted against the bill.
He shared his concerns, saying: "I voted against the Assisted Dying Bill — not because I am against the principle of wanting to relieve suffering, but because there are too many loopholes, too few safeguards and potential for unintended consequences."
Joe, with great experience in the legal profession, criticised amendments made to the bill since the last vote — particularly the replacement of a role for a High Court judge with a 'panel' of professionals, with no power to summon witnesses.
He said: "It means judges can decide whether a child has been coerced into wanting to spend time with only one parent (in divorce proceedings), but not whether a grandparent has been coerced into wanting to end their life (under assisted dying laws).
"As a former family lawyer, I find this both perverse and dangerous."
The concerns raised by both MPs reflect the apprehensions of a significant number of opponents who believe the bill was rushed through without adequate consideration of the potential risks.
The bill will now move to the House of Lords for further scrutiny.
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