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House of Lords Grants Extra Time to Scrutinise Assisted Dying Bill

Supporters warn the current session ends in May, putting the measure at risk.

Overview

  • Peers unanimously backed a non-binding motion to provide further debating time after warnings that delays could sink the bill.
  • More than 1,000 amendments have been tabled, with supporters alleging filibustering and opponents insisting the draft is unsafe and requires rigorous scrutiny.
  • Press Association analysis suggests peers’ allowances for the days allocated so far could total about £1.95 million if current attendance and claiming patterns continue.
  • Lord Falconer said the Lords has spent about 32 hours so far, with only 10 of roughly 84 amendment groups considered across four committee days and 50 more hours scheduled.
  • The proposal would allow terminally ill adults in England and Wales with less than six months to live to seek a medically assisted death, subject to approval by two doctors and a multi‑professional panel.