MPs from across the political spectrum have voiced concern that a low turnout could sway the outcome of the Commons vote on assisted dying when the bill returns to the chamber on Friday.
Supporters are pressing colleagues to attend as they attempt a second parliamentary route for the legislation. They say the measure must clear the Commons again so it can be reintroduced to the House of Lords following last year’s defeat there, which backers described as ‘undemocratic’.
Background
The assisted dying bill had previously passed the Commons but was blocked in the Lords after being talked out by a small number of peers, despite several days of debate. Peers tabled a large number of amendments, and the volume of business contributed to the bill’s collapse in the upper chamber.
Parliamentary concerns
MPs on both sides of the issue cautioned that an informal or poorly attended vote — particularly one held on a Friday sitting — could produce a result that does not reflect the wider strength of feeling among parliamentarians. Backers argue that the previous Lords outcome, which they say was achieved by procedural tactics, underlines the importance of a clear and well-attended Commons decision to advance the measure.
What supporters want
Proponents say securing explicit support in the Commons is a necessary step toward attempting to get the law through the Lords again. They have emphasised the procedural circumstances of the earlier defeat and urged colleagues to ensure the issue is decided by a broad turnout of MPs rather than a narrow quorum.
Opponents have likewise warned that turnout could affect parliamentary legitimacy on such a contentious issue, with both sides framing attendance as critical to the bill’s democratic mandate and future prospects.