A Compassionate Choice: Esther Rantzen Pleads for Assisted Dying Legislation

Dame Esther Rantzen, a well-known broadcaster, has taken a strong stand in favor of the Terminally Ill Adults Bill, which aims to grant terminally ill adults in England and Wales the right to an assisted death. Following its recent approval by the House of Commons with a vote of 314 to 291, Rantzen has urged the House of Lords not to obstruct the bill’s progress toward becoming law. The bill is particularly significant to Rantzen, who joined the assisted dying clinic Dignitas after her diagnosis of terminal lung cancer in 2023.

In an appearance on BBC Radio 4’s Today programme, Rantzen stated, “Their job is to scrutinise, to ask questions, but not to oppose,” emphasizing the importance of allowing elected representatives in the House of Commons to shape laws. The bill, while backed by a majority in the Commons, faces skepticism from certain peers like Lord Shinkwin, a Conservative who warns about the potential risk of coercion for disabled and vulnerable individuals. Lord Shinkwin expressed that it felt as though a price was being placed on the lives of vulnerable people, arguing for the need for increased safeguards within the legislation.

Under this proposed law, mentally competent, terminally ill adults, expected to live less than six months, would undergo a rigorous application process requiring two separate declarations and assessments from independent doctors. This includes a minimum seven-day interval between evaluations, moving to a panel review that requires approval before any assisted death is allowed.

Rantzen defended the bill against claims of potential abuse, asserting that it includes stringent safeguards to prevent coercion. She clarified that disability or mental disorder would not qualify an individual for assisted dying. Despite her personal struggles, she expressed relief after the Commons vote, acknowledging that while the legislation might not be enacted within her lifetime, it would benefit future generations suffering unbearable pain.

The debates have highlighted personal stories, illustrating the deeply emotional and controversial nature of such legislation. Detractors, like Conservative MP Danny Kruger, hope the Lords will either dismiss the bill or demand substantial amendments, while proponents like Labour MP Kim Leadbeater advocate for a respectful and thorough examination of the bill without unnecessary delays.

The legislation’s future is uncertain, as it requires approval by the Lords and would also need to return to the Commons for any further changes made. With only a 23-vote majority in the Commons, it is evident that opinions on this sensitive matter vary widely, and the discussions continue to resonate across the political landscape.