Labour MPs who oppose assisted dying have branded the bill as “irredeemably flawed” and not suitable to become law, citing “significant new risks” that emerged during the examination process, in a letter to their parliamentary colleagues. The letter, signed by six critics, including two select committee chairs, was circulated to all Labour MPs as the scrutiny committee finalized changes to the bill, which is set to return to the Commons in April for its final stages. Since its last vote by MPs, the bill has undergone major revisions, including the replacement of high court judge signoff with a panel of experts, comprising a psychiatrist and a social worker. Furthermore, the implementation period was extended from two to four years, meaning that assisted deaths may not occur until 2029 if the bill passes. The bill’s critics, including select committee chairs Meg Hillier and Florence Eshalomi, among others, argued that the legislation has not been strengthened in committee as promised. They highlighted concerns over insufficient safeguards for vulnerable groups, the lack of impact assessments and cost indications for the service, and Critics also pointed out the potential for doctors to suggest assisted dying to patients who have not raised the topic themselves, as well as the possibility of private sector profiteering from the legislation. They urged MPs to vote against the bill, arguing that a flawed bill that endangers vulnerable individuals is not a viable option. However, Kim Leadbeater, the bill’s sponsor, defended the changes, asserting that they make the legislation even safer and more robust, with particular attention to protecting the disabled and vulnerable individuals. She emphasized confidence in the multi-disciplinary panel’s ability to assess mental capacity and detect coercion, while retaining judicial oversight.

Source: https://www.theguardian.com/society/2025/mar/26/assisted-dying-bill-is-flawed-and-dangerous-after-changes-says-group-of-labour-mps