Southport MP Patrick Hurley Shares Thoughts on End of Life Bill

Southport MP Patrick Hurley comments on the end of life bill

On the 29th of November, parliament will have an initial debate (Second reading) on the Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill. Since the bill was announced, my office has received a lot of correspondence about this issue, which touches the lives of many families across Southport.  
 
I have been informed the proposed Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill is:  
 
‘A Bill to allow adults who are terminally ill, subject to safeguards and protections, to request and be provided with assistance to end their own life; and for connected purposes.’  
  
This is a deeply personal issue, and I recognise that there are strong feelings on all sides. The debate will include voices from across the community.   
  
I share the same position now that I held during the election campaign: I haven't decided how I will vote on this issue yet. I lost my own wife to cancer back in 2006, and the suffering she went through seemed unbearable. While this personal experience will undoubtedly influence my perspective and decision-making process, I'll not rush my decision and will endeavor to make the most informed choice when the bill is voted on later this month.  
  
I have personally read the hundreds of emails that I have received regarding this important issue. I've received feedback from doctors, nurses, caregivers, and many community members who have shared stories about their loved ones' suffering. Additionally, I've heard from various religious and disability organisations that have expressed concerns about the potential implications of the Bill.   
 
I encourage open and respectful dialogue on this topic. Please share your thoughts with me and my office, as they will be crucial in any decision I make in the upcoming debate. I am committed to representing Southport constituency to the best of my ability, ensuring that all voices are heard as we consider this important bill.  
  
I have a questionnaire on my website to gather opinions of groups and individuals across Southport. To listen to both sides of the debate and weigh up this very important and sensitive issue.  
 
Please fill out the Questionnaire here:   
https://patrickhurley.uk/2024/11/04/assisted-suicide-bill/