MPs column - Shrewsbury MP Julia Buckley reflects on historic vote on assisted dying law

I came to this debate neutral in my position, and I have spent the last few weeks engaging with and listening to as many local constituents as possible to gauge their views and gain an understanding of their concerns. 

I have heard from more than 800 residents and organisations, both for and against this specific assisted dying Bill, and I spent the entirety of Friday listening to the debate in the House of Commons.

Tears have been shed. Sorrow has been shared. 

Passionate, heartfelt, and utterly compelling arguments have been put forward by people on both sides of this debate.

And like my colleagues up and down the country, I’ve been hugely impressed and deeply moved by the experiences shared, and the many different thoughts and suggestions, and the beliefs, convictions, and points of view expressed on this issue.

Having heard the arguments for and against the Bill, and weighing up its provisions and protections, I decided on balance to vote in favour of the Bill, to enable its progression to the Committee stage.

The final vote in the House was 330 in favour and 275 against, meaning the Bill will now pass to the remaining stages for further deliberations.

Throughout the conversation, I have taken every opportunity to raise the concerns of stretched social care across rural Shropshire whilst also recognising the high quality of palliative care currently offered by the Severn Hospice and local NHS community end of life services. 

In this context, it was important to enable greater dialogue around preparations for a dignified death that minimises unnecessary pain and harm for as many people as possible.

Understandably, many people across my constituency, across Shropshire, and across the country have deeply held views on this most difficult and emotionally charged subject, and everyone – quite rightly - wants their voice heard.

I recognise that some of those who contacted me have important and valid concerns about this Bill. I would like to reassure those people that I have written directly to the Bill’s sponsor, Kim Leadbeater MP, and to Wes Streeting MP, the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, outlining your concerns. 

I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone for the dignified nature of their correspondence on this highly emotive topic. I value and welcome your ongoing dialogue with me to enable me to best represent you and your views.