Shrewsbury MP seeks residents' views on assisted dying ahead of Commons debate

With the new Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill published this week, Shrewsbury MP Julia Buckley is looking to explore a range of views on the subject through an informal coffee morning-style event next week.

The bill is set to be discussed in Parliament on November 29, the first time the subject has been debated in the Commons for a decade. 

Locals are being invited to attend and put forward and attend the event, ahead of the MP taking part in the debate later this month.

Mrs Buckley said: “Let me begin by stating that I am committed to upholding the value of human life, but also the freedom and autonomy that gives life so much value.

“At the outset can I say that I do not have a firm personal opinion on this, and I am keen to listen to and represent the views of my constituents. For this reason, I have decided to host a coffee morning and invite constituents to come along and talk about their concerns. Following this, I should be in a strong position to carefully advocate for the wishes of my constituents.

“I want to reassure you that I am committed to ensuring that if any reforms were undertaken, the vulnerable would be protected from exploitation and abuse. For me to vote for any change in the law on assisted dying, there would need to be effective checks and safeguards in the process.”

Anyone interested in attending the event – which will be at a town centre disabled-accessible venue on Saturday, November 23 - can obtain full details by contacting the MP’s office at 64 Wyle Cop, Shrewsbury (telephone 01743 650434) or by emailing Julia.buckley.mp@parliament.uk