Jessica Toale MP Statement on Assisted Dying Bill

Today Parliament narrowly voted to pass the Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill. 

This decision on how to vote has weighed heavily on me. I have sought to reconcile and represent the many views of my constituents. I have received hundreds of emails both for and against the bill, have met people in one-to-one surgeries and hosted two public meetings. This is a deeply personal issue with strongly felt views on both sides. 

As many of you know, I was not against assisted dying in principle but sought to make my decision based on the content of the bill and whether it addressed the legitimate concerns raised with me by constituents, medical practitioners and charities. 

During the bill's various stages I voted on amendments based on how they addressed these concerns and strengthened the bill should it be implemented. 

Ultimately I decided to vote in favour of the bill today. 

I believe the bill and its amendments addressed the concerns raised with me - including, but not limited to, about safeguards, particular medical and mental health conditions and protections for medical practitioners. 

I know that some of you may disagree with the way I voted today - but I hope that even if that is the case, you are reassured that I have engaged deeply, taken into consideration a range of concerns and been motivated by a desire to ensure the best possible version of the bill came to the vote today. 

For terminally ill adults facing unbearable suffering, this decision is about enabling a more compassionate and dignified choice at the end of life. I heard heart breaking stories from people whose loved ones didn’t get this choice, and it is clear to me that the status quo is not working. 

I want to reassure constituents who are worried about the impact on palliative care that I do not think this is an either-or choice. I will continue to advocate for the funding and support that our NHS and hospices need to deliver this essential care. 

The bill will now progress to the House of Lords for more scrutiny. It will eventually receive Royal Ascent from the King and will move to implementation, where it will rightly have the eyes of the world on it. I will continue to monitor its progress ensure it have the strongest and most robust safeguards in place. 

Thank you to everyone who has been in touch with me and for all your advice, experience, kindness and support as I’ve been making this decision.