Two more East Lancs MPs back assisted dying bill in vote

Blackburn Independent Adnan Hussain, Hyndburn's Sarah Smith and her Labour colleague Maya Ellis all voted against as they stated they would earlier in the week.

Pendle and Clitheroe's Mr Hinder and Rossendale and Darwen's Mr MacNae made their minds up this morning during the House of Commons debate on Spen Valley MP Kim Leadbeater's Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill.

This afternoon, MPs voted 330 to 275 in support of the proposal which which will now be scrutinised in detail by a Parliamentary committee.

Former police officer Mr Hinder said: "I have agonised over this decision.

Jonathan Hinder voted in favour of the legislation "However, I came into politics because I want to reduce human suffering - to see people live happier, more fulfilled lives.

"It is heartbreaking that so many people’s final months are consumed by pain and suffering, along with the associated impact this has on their families.

"While I have doubts and concerns, on balance I currently believe this bill is sufficiently limited in scope to reduce unnecessary suffering for those who wish to shorten a painful death, without causing undue suffering to others."

Mr MacNae said: "Fundamentally, I support the principles and underlying rationale for this bill.

"This bill is about choice and dignity – values I believe we should work to protect and enhance.

Andy MacNae backed the bill but wants more scrutiny "With the law we currently have in place, there is little internal logic and few safeguards.

"Having studied the bill as it stands, I believe it needs further scrutiny. In particular, safeguards need to be strengthened."

Independent Mr Hussain, whose faith guided his decision, said: "I believe wholeheartedly that I have made the right decision in voting against the bill.

"I am deeply disappointed that a decision of this nature is being rushed through Parliament at this speed.

"Morally I am completely opposed to it, and I also believe it falls way short of having all the necessary safeguards in place. I will continue to vote against it in all future readings."

Hyndburn's Mrs Smith said: "I remain unconvinced this is the right time for this change in the law and I remain deeply concerned about the impact of this on our NHS and palliative care systems.

"Assisted dying is not a choice if you do not have the alternative choice of good palliative care."

Mrs Ellis said: 'Parliament was at its very best today with respectful debate and considered, researched arguments. Long may it continue."

Oliver Ryan added: "I'm pleased this has passed in principle, there are still aspects of the bill to iron out at committee stage and I'm particularly glad the House was very measured and respectful of all views."