Following the approval of the Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill at its final vote in the House of Commons, by 314 votes to 291, Douglas Alexander MP said:
“The Assisted Dying Bill has clearly been a highly sensitive and contentious issue and one which I know all MPs have given great thought to over the last few months.
“I am very grateful to all the constituents on both sides of the debate who took the time to contact me and express their views, ranging from bereaved family members to the terminally ill and medical professionals.
“In my view, providing someone who is terminally ill with the ability to choose how their life should end is a matter of dignity.
“I believe those living with a terminal illness, whether they wish to end their own life or not, should be able to make this decision themselves in an informed and considered manner and with the appropriate safeguards against abuse.
“That is why I voted to support the Bill at its Third Reading today.”