Our conversation explores the procedural hurdles facing Private Members’ Bills – especially at Report Stage, where many stumble. Leadbeater outlines some of the key amendments she plans to table, including stronger conscience protections for healthcare professionals, a ban on advertising, and provisions to ensure the legislation is workable and legally sound.

One of the most debated issues is whether hospices and similar institutions should be allowed to opt out of assisted dying requests. While critics want clearer rules in the Bill, Leadbeater argues for flexibility – preferring to let institutions make their own decisions, with the potential for the system to evolve over time.

We also explore the Government’s role. Though officially neutral, it has played a behind-the-scenes role in shaping the Bill’s technical aspects. Leadbeater has collaborated closely with civil servants to make sure the legislation is workable, including enhanced oversight mechanisms like a strengthened reporting framework and the role of the Voluntary Assisted Dying Commissioner.

The newly released Impact Assessment gets a mention, too. While unlikely to sway firmly held views on this deeply personal issue, it offers important insights—such as expected uptake, implementation costs, training needs, and a tentative start date in late 2029, assuming a four-year rollout.

Concerns have been raised by some MPs about whether the Bill is being rushed. Leadbeater insists she's proceeding step by step and not looking too far ahead. Still, Ruth and Mark point out that the Government’s own Impact Assessment suggests an extended Session into the Autumn — likely giving the Bill more breathing room.

Beyond the legislative detail, Leadbeater reflects on the emotional toll of championing this Bill. She’s endured online abuse and misinformation, but is driven by the moving stories of people who’ve witnessed loved ones suffer or felt compelled to seek end-of-life options abroad. Despite the intensity of the issue, she commends the respectful tone of debate among MPs, especially those who oppose the Bill on moral or religious grounds.

As the 16 May debate approaches, Leadbeater stresses how vital it is for supportive MPs to attend and vote — both to ensure key amendments are discussed and to maintain public confidence in Parliament’s handling of the Bill. With a high level of public interest and emotional investment, a poorly attended Report Stage would damage the credibility of the House of Commons.

🗓️ To provide full coverage of the Report Stage outcome, we’ll be delaying next week’s episode of Parliament Matters by 24 hours. Look out for it in your podcast feed from 7am on Saturday 17 May.

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