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MP explains his decision for voting against assisted dying legislation
29/11/2024
Sean Woodcock admitted he had agonised over the decision
The vote to allow assisted dying in the UK has been passed in parliament, but Banbury’s MP voted against the move. Sean Woodcock said he was not convinced by the safeguards in the Bill, along with the current state of palliative care and the NHS, and the workload of the courts.
In a free vote with no MP being told to follow the party whip, the vote in favour of the legislation was won with 330 for and 275 against.
Mr Woodcock has admitted he has agonised over the decision in recent weeks, seeking the views of local people and holding an on-line meeting last weekend to discuss the issue.
He told Banbury FM: “Today I voted against the Second Reading of the Terminally Ill (Assisted Dying) Bill. This was not a decision that I took lightly and I have been very open about how difficult I have found this decision, but as an MP I understand that making decisions is an important part of my role and on this issue abstaining was not an option for me.
“Many people approached me with their own stories about difficulties that they or loved ones have faced at the end of life. This says to me very clearly that the current status quo is intolerable.
“I believe that there are lots of individuals for whom having this choice would make a positive difference and provide certainty to loved ones.
“Unfortunately, I was not convinced by supporters and sponsors of the Bill that the safeguards within it, which I believe are well-intended, will work and the current state of palliative and social care, as well as the NHS, is such a concern I fear the choice for many will not be a fair choice.
“I am also concerned at the lack of capacity that I have personally witnessed in a in the courts system to undertake the extra work. Neither do I think adding yet more complex and controversial work on GPs at this time is acceptable.
“These are significant issues that I do not believe have been adequately addressed by the Bill’s supporters.
“This is why I voted no.
“I understand that this will disappoint many of you. But I hope you understand and accept I took all of your feedback seriously along with what I heard in the chamber.
“I absolutely believe in bodily autonomy I will push to improve the Bill on the areas that I was concerned about and hope that this makes it acceptable for me to vote Aye at third reading. As you would expect of your MP.
“Once again I invite constituents to contact me with their views.”
Published: by Banbury FM Newsteam