Advocacy Urged Ahead of Crucial Assisted Suicide Vote
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As the Third Reading vote on the assisted suicide bill approaches, a former Conservative MP emphasizes the importance of direct engagement with local representatives. He suggests that meeting MPs in person could significantly influence their stance on this divisive issue.
Tom Hunt, who previously represented Ipswich, shared his insights on the impact of constituent meetings. “Letters and emails are, of course, of value, but meeting requests are a level above,” he stated.
Hunt recounted his experience during his initial year in office when special needs provision became a top priority, largely due to the frequency of meetings with constituents on the subject.
“This had a real influence on me and led me to make special educational needs provision one of my top three priorities as the local MP,” he explained.
Hunt is now encouraging the public to actively communicate their opinions on the assisted suicide bill to lawmakers, highlighting the importance of in-person discussions.
“I would encourage everyone … to email or write a letter, but meeting in person is a step beyond that; it makes an MP feel connected to their constituents and, on this issue, this is absolutely vital,” he stated.
The bill, which passed Second Reading by a margin of 55 votes, initially promised a safeguard involving High Court judge approval for any assisted suicide. However, this has since been adjusted to require approval from a panel of experts.
Catherine Robinson from Right To Life UK, a group opposing the bill, echoed Hunt’s call to action. “With three extra weeks until the next vote, we know the assisted suicide lobby will not be standing still and will be using every minute of this extra time,” she said.
Robinson stressed the urgency of reaching out to MPs to sway their votes against the bill and ensure those in favor are present for the crucial Third Reading vote.
This article was originally written by www.christiantoday.com
