Successive governments have taken the view that any change in the law should be a matter of conscience for MPs, instead of a whipped vote. The new Government has confirmed that it will continue to take this approach. 

Given that this is an issue of conscience, I agree that it should be for individual Members of Parliament, rather than the Government, to decide on whether to change the law on assisted dying. 

With the introduction of the Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill by Kim Leadbeater MP, this issue is now on the legislative agenda. The Bill is due to have its Second Reading on 29 November, and it will be the first opportunity in years for MPs to debate and vote on legalising assisted dying. 

As someone who cared for two close family members who were terminally ill, I understand the enormity of this issue and it is something that I have given great consideration to. 

Leading up to 29 November, I am eager to hear the views of my constituents on assisted dying. I will also be following the public debate closely, listening to experts and campaigners, and examining what happened when assisted dying was legalised in other countries. 

Regardless of the outcome of this Bill, I believe that assisted dying should not be an alternative to high-quality palliative and end of life care. People deserve dignity in dying, and each person nearing the end of their life should feel reassured and safe in the knowledge that they will receive the very best care.