Support for Assisted Dying Bill weakens as more MPs withdraw backing

Liberal Democrat MP Brian Mathew has confirmed he will vote against the Assisted Dying Bill at its next Commons stage, citing unanswered concerns and fears about pressure on vulnerable people nearing the end of life.

In an email to constituents, the Melksham and Devizes MP said he had originally supported the Bill at its second reading in April. However, following debates and scrutiny during the Committee Stage, he concluded: "Several concerns I feel have been inadequately answered.”

Mathew added that he had listened to “eloquent and challenging viewpoints” from both sides of the debate:

“I share the concerns of many constituents that individuals facing terminal illness will take the decision based on concerns that they have become a burden upon their family. This is a serious concern for me; I worry that in someone’s final days, this question will loom heavy when it does not need to."

He also pointed to the state of palliative care services, describing them as inadequate.

Mathew is now the second Lib Dem MP to publicly change his position.

Last week, Steve Darling, MP for Torbay and the party’s work and pensions spokesperson, said he was now “marginally against” the Bill, though had not decided whether he would vote against it or abstain.

About eight MPs who either supported or abstained at the Second Reading have since stated they will now oppose the Bill.

However, at least two MPs who previously abstained are now supportive. In a recent shift, a Labour MP who opposed the Bill was replaced in a by-election by a Reform UK MP who backs it.

The Assisted Dying Bill, led by Labour MP Kim Leadbeater, seeks to legalise assisted suicide for mentally competent adults with a terminal illness and less than six months to live.

It passed its Second Reading with a majority of 55 and MPs will consider further amendments on 13 June.

One key amendment already agreed allows all healthcare workers—not just doctors—to opt out of involvement in assisted suicide.