Since becoming an MP, I have campaigned to legalise assisted dying – believing that terminally ill people should have the right to choose to end their life. This week, Labour Leader Keir Starmer committed to allowing MPs the time to debate and vote on a change in the law under a Labour government. I know many feel deeply about this issue, and I’m glad to see this progress.
Here’s what else happened in Westminster this week:
Supporting a change in the law for assisted dying
I was pleased to host a reception alongside the team at Dignity in Dying, marking the launch of new polling that showed the overwhelming support in England for a change in the law. It was good to see so many colleagues join the event – both those supporting the campaign and others who wanted to hear more about how assisted dying can be safely implemented.
Celebrating the Irish in Britain
My parents came to Britain from Ireland in the 1950s, and – with St Patrick’s Day on Sunday – I was proud to celebrate my heritage this week by joining various receptions with fellow MPs. As chair of the All Party Parliamentary Group for the Irish in Britain, I also hosted the latest meeting of the group on Wednesday, where we discussed issues facing Irish people in the UK.
Building an NHS fit for the future
In my role as Shadow Minister for Health, I gave a speech at Australia House this week. I addressed an audience of healthcare companies and stakeholders, laying out Labour’s perspectives on the health sector in England and outlining our plans to adapt the NHS to the challenges of the 21st century. It was good to field questions about our commitment to work with business to deliver our mission, while also discussing what the UK and Australian health systems can learn from each other.
Protecting animal welfare
I know animal welfare is an issue of great concern to many in Bristol South. We must do all we can to stop dreadful practices like puppy smuggling and the low-welfare import of animals, and I supported a bill in Parliament this week to improve safeguards around the conditions in which dogs, cats, and ferrets are transported into the UK.