MPs narrowly voted to legalise assisted dying in England and Wales. But now the details must be dealt with
The right to an assisted death will become law in England and Wales within four years as MPs backed a historic societal shift in parliament on Friday by a tight majority. But what does it mean for the future?
It may be some years away yet – although no later than 2029. There is no timetable but, under the terms of the legislation, it needs to start within four years after the law is passed.
The bill is likely to be given royal assent by the end of the year, if it passes smoothly through the House of Lords. However, there are many details about the process that are yet to be ironed out, including how the system will work either within the NHS or outside it, that could delay its implementation.
Many people with terminal illnesses campaigning for a change in the law will be relieved by the legislation but are not certain to benefit from it themselves. It could take years to implement, so those with a shorter life expectancy are unlikely to be eligible for an assisted dying service.
