WIRRAL MPs have voted on whether they are for or against a bill that would legalise assisted dying in the UK.
The bill - called the Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill - sets out detailed requirements to be eligible.
It was the second reading of the terminally ill adults (end of life) bill, which would make assisted dying legal for terminally ill adults who are expected to die within six months and have the mental capacity to choose how they end their lives subject to tough safeguards.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer was among the 330 MPs who voted in favour of the Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill at second reading.
There were 275 MPs who opposed the private member’s bill, meaning it cleared its first parliamentary hurdle by a majority of 55.
The ayes in support of the bill were 330, and those against were 275. The bill will now proceed to its next Commons stage.
Wirral West MP Matthew Patrick and Ellesmere Port and Bromborough MP Justin Madders voted against the bill.
Birkenhead MP Alison McGovern, Wallasey MP Angela Eagle and Chester North and Neston MP Samantha Dixon voted in favour.
What is in the bill?
This is subject to "safeguards and protections" which include:
• They must have a "clear, settled and informed wish to end their own life" and have reached this decision voluntarily, without coercion or pressure;
• They must have lived in England or Wales for 12 months and be registered with a GP;
• Two independent doctors must be satisfied the person meets the criteria and there must be at least seven days between the doctors making the assessments;
• If both doctors state the person is eligible, then they must apply to the High Court for approval of their request;
• If the High Court decides that the applicant meets the bill's requirements, then there is a 14-day reflection period (or 48 hours if death is imminent);
• After this, the person must make a second declaration, which would have to be signed and witnessed by one doctor and another person.
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