Assisted Dying Bill

Today the Assisted Dying Bill returned to Parliament.

Having considered the legislation carefully, I decided to abstain in the vote.

This is a complex, sensitive and deeply personal issue. Over recent months, I have devoted considerable time to engaging with the debate. I have spoken directly with many constituents, including at a public discussion in St Andrews that I hosted alongside Willie Rennie MSP. I have also met medical experts and practitioners in North East Fife, including those who support the legislation and those who oppose it.

I am grateful to everyone who has taken the time to share their views with me.

I have been struck by the sincerity, compassion and thoughtfulness shown by people on all sides of the debate.

When legislation on assisted dying was previously considered by Parliament, I voted in favour of the Bill at Second Reading, which is the stage where MPs consider its general principles. I later abstained at Third Reading.

While I recognise the strength of feeling on all sides of this debate, my concerns relate less to the principle of assisted dying itself and more to the legislative process. I remain concerned that there was insufficient scrutiny before the legislation was introduced to Parliament.

For an issue of such profound ethical, legal and medical significance, I believe Parliament should be satisfied that all relevant evidence has been fully considered and that a wide range of expert voices have been heard.

In particular, I do not believe enough work was undertaken in advance to fully understand how the NHS would manage and fund the changes proposed, or how the Bill would interact with existing legislation and the responsibilities of different government departments. These are important questions that I believe require greater consideration.

As a Scottish MP, I am mindful that this legislation applies primarily to England and Wales. During the previous Parliament, legislation on assisted dying was also progressing in Scotland and included matters that would have required approval by Westminster. In those circumstances, there was a direct connection between the legislation being considered in both Parliaments. That is no longer the case, as there is currently no equivalent Scottish legislation before the Scottish Parliament.

In addition, assisted dying is a conscience issue, meaning MPs are expected to reach their own conclusions rather than following a party position.

Taking all of these factors into account, I abstained in today's vote. I have thought carefully about this, and this is the position that I have taken.

I appreciate that many people hold deeply felt views on this issue and I am grateful to everyone who has taken the time to contact me.