Vikki Slade MP presses Prime Minister to protect the Assisted Dying Bill from Lords

Vikki Slade MP in today’s PMQ’s challenged the Prime Minister to ensure the Assisted Dying Bill is not blocked by procedural delay in the House of Lords, warning that it would be “a travesty for democracy” if the unelected chamber prevents the elected House of Commons from enacting its will.

Speaking in the House of Commons, Vikki raised concerns that no additional time has been allocated in the Lords for the Bill to complete its passage. Amid reports of delaying tactics that risk running the clock down, she urged the Prime Minister to intervene.

Vikki asked Mr Starmer:

“Two weeks ago, it was confirmed that no extra time will be provided in the Other Place to allow the Assisted Dying Bill to complete its course. If this blocks the will of this democratically elected House, it will be a travesty for democracy and more importantly, a tragedy for all those who are relying on it, and waited so long, not least my own Dad."

"Will he act now to prevent the dismissal of the views of 76% of the public, especially as other parts of our country approve it, and so secure a real legacy for social policy in this Parliament?”

In response, the Prime Minister said the issue was a matter of conscience and that scrutiny of legislation is a matter for the Lords. He did not commit to any additional protections, which could lead to the end of the Bill.

Following the exchange, Vikki said:

“This is fundamentally a democratic issue. The House of Commons — made up of elected representatives — has expressed its will. It cannot be right for an unelected chamber to block it by running down the clock."

“Public polling shows strong support for change. I support this Bill not lightly, but after speaking with end-of-life care experts, listening to constituents, and reflecting on my own family’s experience."

“For many families, this is not an abstract debate, it is deeply personal. The elected Commons must be allowed to enact its will?"

Vikki has pledged to continue pressing for the Bill to be given the time it needs to complete its passage through Parliament.