UK Parliament approves assisted dying bill: How would it work?
Al JazeeraJUN 19
UK: Health Secretary Says No Money for Assisted Dying Service
Above: Wes Streeting during the RCOG World Congress 2025 on June 23, 2025. Image copyright: Lucy North/PA Images via Getty Images
The Spin
Left narrative
Assisted dying is the compassionate choice, giving terminally ill adults dignity in their final moments. Forcing people to suffer needlessly is morally wrong – three-quarters of the U.K. public agree. The NHS is recovering, with productivity up 2.5% and falling waiting lists, and a slowly healing health service can manage these modest costs to provide essential end-of-life care reform.
Right narrative
Even if the worrying ethical consequences of this policy are put aside, the U.K. cannot afford assisted dying. Costing tens of millions, this misguided policy forces impossible trade-offs between helping the living and facilitating death. It is clear that, amidst a shortage of medical professionals and resources, the NHS should focus on ensuring the quality of existing palliative care options.