Key facts
- MPs are concerned about low turnout affecting the upcoming vote on assisted dying.
- The bill previously passed the House of Commons but was blocked in the House of Lords.
- Supporters of the bill argue that the Lords should not override the will of the elected chamber.
- Two MPs who previously supported the bill are no longer in parliament.
- The current prime minister will abstain from the vote.
Lawmakers are expressing concerns that a low turnout of Members of Parliament could jeopardize the upcoming vote on assisted dying, which is making its second attempt to become law in the House of Commons.
Supporters of the bill, originally sponsored by Kim Leadbeater and revived by Labour MP Lauren Edwards, are emphasizing the "undemocratic" nature of its previous rejection by the House of Lords. The bill passed the Commons last year by a majority of 23 but was ultimately talked out in the Lords due to numerous amendments.
Edwards stated that the Lords should not be allowed to "frustrate the will of the elected chamber a second time," arguing that terminally ill people deserve the choice to control the manner of their deaths. She countered accusations of reopening party divisions, asserting that in a democracy, differences are settled by voting.
Some MPs, including former Welsh secretary Jo Stevens, are furious at the "outrageous behaviour" of a small number of unelected peers who they believe went against the will of the Commons. However, other MPs suggest that the pro-assisted dying side is finding it difficult to ensure MPs remain present for the vote, potentially leading to tighter numbers.
Two MPs who previously voted in favor of the bill are no longer in parliament. The current Prime Minister has indicated he will abstain, while other high-profile supporters have previously expressed unease about using the Parliament Act to pass the law if it is rejected again by the Lords.