Kim Leadbeater - who came first in the private member’s bill ballot - is going to use her slot for a bill on assisted dying.
This is significant because it means the bill is pretty much guaranteed a debate and is also likely to get a vote.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cwylpvjp78jo
This is significant because it means the bill is pretty much guaranteed a debate and is also likely to get a vote.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cwylpvjp78jo
Comments
This means a debate cannot be avoided by a long debate on an earlier bill (a tactic sometimes used to ruin the chances of PMBs).
There are only 7 days for PMB second readings, so being in the top 7 matters.
This motion brings the debate to a close so there can be a vote. Without this, opponents can keep talking until the bill runs out of time.
The Lords is currently also considering a bill, though this is unlikely to pass - as explained here.
https://theconversation.com/why-a-house-of-lords-private-members-bill-on-assisted-dying-is-one-to-watch-this-week-235433
Even if it passes its second reading (first major stage), the procedural obstacles at later stages are significant.
It seems possible that, to pass into law, the government will need to give it parliamentary time.
We discussed the prospects for an assisted dying bill when I appeared on @hansardsociety.bsky.social’s (excellent) Parliament Matters podcast a few weeks ago.
https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/parliament-matters/id1714627828?i=1000668579444
"I gave her my word that we would make time for this with a private member’s bill and I repeat that commitment."
https://www.standard.co.uk/news/politics/keir-starmer-esther-rantzen-prime-minister-house-of-commons-dame-b1182581.html