Assisted dying: Delay to allow new select committee to hear expert evidence

The assisted suicide bill has been delayed to allow a time-limited select committee to hear expert evidence on safeguards and existing gaps in the bill.

The bill was receiving its second reading in the House of Lords with a vote expected on 19 September. However, a written request by 20+ cross-party peers for a select committee to hear oral evidence from professionals has been accepted. The letter said this was a “necessity” to ensure the bill contains the promised “robust safeguards”. Lord Falconer, the bill’s sponsor in the Lords, agreed to a fast-tracked select committee which is to report back by 7 November.

The select committee will consider issues including funding assisted dying; the role of coroners and medical professionals; and opting out for hospices and care homes.