A Matter of Life and Death: Labour's Controversial Battle Over Assisted Dying Legislation

A leaked policy note from 2023 reveals behind-the-scenes discussions within Labour regarding the legalisation of assisted dying for those with a terminal diagnosis. Commissioned by Sir Keir Starmer’s office, the note emphasizes that such a measure would be popular among the public and warns that inaction on the issue could harm the party’s image as they approach the 2024 general election.

Opponents of assisted dying are questioning the government’s stated neutrality on the Terminally Ill Adults Bill, which is currently progressing through Parliament. The bill, introduced by Labour backbencher Kim Leadbeater, is seen by some as potentially influenced by party leadership despite denials from Leadbeater and Labour officials that there has been any coordination with Downing Street.

The 2023 policy note, which was disclosed by the BBC and first reported by the Guardian, projects strong campaigns advocating for assisted dying during the election cycle. It points out that legalising assisted dying is particularly appealing to voters in key areas Labour needs to reclaim, pushing the party to consider how to approach this divisive issue formally. It discusses several possible strategies, including a public consultation and a private member’s bill, seen as the most viable option to facilitate cross-party cooperation and mitigate potential political backlash.

Furthermore, the note cautions that neglecting to engage with this topic could portray Labour as incapable of tackling difficult issues head-on. The bill is currently facing scrutiny in the House of Lords, where amendments have been introduced, causing delays amid accusations from supporters that opposition peers are attempting to obstruct its progress. The Bishop of Newcastle, Helen-Ann Hartley, voiced concerns over Labour’s neutrality, especially given Sir Keir’s previous commitments to campaigners for a forthcoming debate on the issue.

With the bill requiring approval from both Houses before April’s end to become law, proponents of assisted dying fear that its slow advancement signals a potential failure to enact such crucial legislation. Labour’s internal discussions and the unfolding dynamics of party leadership’s influence over this sensitive topic raise significant questions about their political strategy and commitment to progressive reforms.