Broadcaster Jonathan Dimbleby criticized the House of Lords for attempting to impede the progress of the Assisted Dying bill, calling their actions “inhumane.” Dimbleby is appealing to the public to sign a petition aimed at preventing the unelected Lords from obstructing the bill’s advancement.
More than 1,000 amendments have been proposed for the Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill, with a majority originating from just a few Lords. The petition has garnered nearly 90,000 signatures, with the goal of reaching 100,000 signatures to prompt a debate in Parliament.
A close associate of King Charles expressed dissatisfaction with the current UK laws, describing them as “anachronistically cruel as capital punishment.” Dimbleby’s brother, Nicholas, passed away at the age of 77 after battling motor neurone disease (MND). In a statement released through Dignity in Dying, Dimbleby emphasized the urgency of the situation and urged the House of Lords to promptly address the proposed amendments.
The delay in the review process raises concerns about the bill’s fate before the end of the parliamentary session in May. Dimbleby emphasized the importance of public support through the petition to ensure that the will of the people is not disregarded by the unelected Lords.
Reflecting on his brother’s struggles with MND, Dimbleby highlighted the loss of control and dignity faced by those with terminal illnesses. He emphasized the right to choose an assisted death and the need for Parliament to listen to the voices of the terminally ill and their advocates.
Dimbleby criticized the actions of a few Peers who have been obstructing the bill’s progress through numerous amendments, labeling it as filibustering. He stressed the necessity of continuing the campaign to make the assisted dying Bill a reality.
To sign the petition, visit: https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions/752673.