UK Officials Signal Openness to New Vote on Assisted Dying

The move follows broadcaster Esther Rantzen's announcement of joining Dignitas, reigniting the national conversation on the issue.

Work and Pensions Secretary Mel Stride signals support for a new parliamentary vote on assisted dying, following Esther Rantzen's announcement that she has joined the Dignitas assisted dying clinic.
Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer may allow a free vote on assisted dying if Labour wins the election, aiming to end the 'injustice' of the current ban.
Assisted suicide is currently banned in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, with a maximum prison sentence of 14 years. In Scotland, it is not a specific criminal offence, but assisting the death of someone can leave a person open to murder or other charges.
A bill to legalise assisted dying in the UK was defeated in 2015, but national discourse has reportedly changed since then, with some MPs expressing a change in their views.
The Health and Social Care Committee is due to publish its report into assisted dying and assisted suicide in England and Wales, having launched an inquiry in December 2022.