Labour planned in opposition how to introduce assisted dying via private member’s bill

A leaked document reveals that the Labour Party, while in opposition, planned to introduce assisted dying legislation through a private member's bill, aiming for "heavy influence" despite the bill's independent nature. The proposed bill, mirroring a later bill introduced by Labour MP Kim Leadbeater, would limit assisted dying to mentally competent, terminally ill individuals with less than six months to live. The leak raises questions about government control over Leadbeater's bill, which is currently facing significant opposition and potential filibustering in the House of Lords. Keir Starmer, a long-time supporter of assisted dying law reform, publicly suggested a private member's bill approach in December 2023. The internal Labour policy note, drafted in November 2023, suggested the change could appeal to older voters. Leadbeater denies any prior conversations with party leadership regarding the bill.

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