As the House of Commons prepares for a crucial vote on assisted suicide, the Christian policy group CARE is rallying believers to offer prayers. This comes in light of a new bill, remarkably similar to the one that was previously rejected, which is set to be debated by MPs.
Earlier this year, efforts to legalize medically assisted suicide stumbled when time constraints prevented further progression. Despite this setback, supporters have persisted, introducing a nearly identical proposal for parliamentary consideration.
The original bill, championed by Kim Leadbeater MP, successfully passed through the House of Commons but encountered obstacles in the House of Lords. Now, a recent poll indicates that the latest version, introduced by Lauren Edwards MP, might face challenges at the outset.
A survey conducted by the pro-life group Care Not Killing among 100 MPs reveals that approximately 63% oppose the current bill, with only 37% expressing support.
This issue is being treated as a matter of personal conscience, allowing MPs to vote independently rather than along party lines.
Several MPs have voiced concerns over the proposed legislation, particularly regarding the adequacy of safeguards and the potential use of the Parliament Act to bypass the House of Lords. Though seldom invoked, the Parliament Act allows the Commons to overrule the Lords by passing the same bill in successive sessions.
Previously, the Leadbeater bill passed with a slender majority of 23, indicating that a shift by just 12 MPs could lead to the failure of the Edwards bill.
James Mildred, Director of Communications and Engagement at CARE, criticized the bill, stating, “Lauren Edwards’ assisted suicide Bill is irredeemably flawed and contains the same raft of errors found in Kim Leadbeater’s Bill in the last parliament.”
He expressed enthusiasm about the prayerful mobilization of Christians across the UK as the vote approaches, highlighting their engagement with MPs and participation in prayer gatherings.
Mildred urged churches to “intercede for our nation” and support MPs in their decision-making process. He added, “There’s been a lot of talk about this not being the right time for this legislation. We would agree but go even further and say that the time will never be right for assisted suicide.”
He concluded by affirming, “God alone holds the power of life and death.”
This article was originally written by www.christiantoday.com
