London, April 27 (SANA) A proposed law to legalize assisted dying in England and Wales has stalled in Parliament after running out of time to complete its legislative process, nearly 17 months after lawmakers first backed it.
The bill, which would have allowed terminally ill adults with less than six months to live to seek medical assistance to end their lives under strict conditions, passed the House of Commons but failed to complete its stages in the House of Lords, according to BBC report.
Supporters said they remain determined to reintroduce the legislation in the next parliamentary session, due to begin on May 13, arguing there is continued political backing for the measure.
Labour lawmaker Kim Leadbeater, who introduced the bill, said she felt “sadness” over its failure to pass but remained confident it would return. She accused some members of the House of Lords of delaying the process, while critics argued the bill lacked sufficient safeguards to protect vulnerable people.
More than 1,200 amendments were proposed during deliberations in the Lords, in what observers described as an unusually high number for a bill introduced by a backbench member of parliament.
Opponents of the legislation said the proposed framework raised concerns about potential risks, particularly for disabled individuals and those who may feel pressured into ending their lives.
Baroness Tanni Grey-Thompson, who opposed the bill, said it contained significant shortcomings and required further safeguards. She noted that while the issue of terminal illness is important, broader concerns about vulnerability and consent must also be addressed.
Supporters, including patients and campaigners, expressed disappointment but said they would continue advocating for legal changes. Some said they hoped the bill could gain renewed support and pass in a future session.
The debate over assisted dying remains one of the most divisive ethical and legal issues in the United Kingdom, with lawmakers and advocacy groups sharply divided over how to balance personal choice with protections for vulnerable groups.
ABD
