ON Friday, November 29, Parliament debated the second reading of the Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill and Adam Dance, MP for Yeovil and South Somerset backed the Bill.

According to Adam Dance MP this Bill addresses the “important and sensitive” issue about “giving people dignity, compassion and choice at the end of their lives.”

“I know it means a lot to many, and I want to thank the hundreds of people who have written to me over the past months to share their views, personal stories, and concerns. Your input has been invaluable in helping me consider this decision carefully,” Mr Dance said.

Adam Dance also goes on to mention how he met with experts, faith leaders, legal professionals, and people on both sides of the debate. He listened to a wide range of opinions and consequently reflected deeply on what the Bill could mean for families in Yeovil and across the UK.

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After informing himself thoroughly, Adam Dance feels that the current law “denies terminally ill people the right to choose a peaceful and dignified to end to their suffering”.

“It also punishes loved ones who support their family’s final wishes. Each year, hundreds of people face impossible end-of-life situations or pay large sums to travel abroad for an assisted death. This is both unfair and unsustainable,” he added. “I believe that those suffering from a terminal illness should have the right to make this choice, but it must be supported by strong safeguards to protect vulnerable people and ensure decisions are made freely and without pressure.”

After five hours of debate in Parliament on Friday, November 29, Adam Dance voted yes at the second reading along with the rest of the majority.

The Bill will now move to Committee Stage, where every detail will be scrutinised, and changes can be made to ensure robust protections.

During this stage if there is another vote Adam Dance MP also said he will carefully consider his decision again.

“I also believe that no one should feel forced to shorten their life because they can’t access proper care. My Liberal Democrat colleagues and I will continue to push for everyone to have access to the best palliative and hospice care,” he said.

“I know this is an emotional and deeply personal issue, and not everyone will agree with my decision. I hope this helps explain why I voted as I did. This is not the end of the discussion, and I will keep listening to your thoughts as the Bill progresses through Parliament. Thank you to everyone who has reached out to me on this important matter. Your voices have shaped my thinking, and I will continue to ensure they are heard.”