There were questions in parliament on Tuesday as Christian MP Munira Wilson asked Care minister Stephen Kinnock if mental health providers have “capacity” to become involved in the assisted dying process.
“What assessment have ministers made on whether there’s sufficient capacity in the mental healthcare services – which he’s just noted are so overstretched – to meet these demands and the potential knock-on impact on both waiting times and treatment for those with mental health conditions?”
The minister replied: “The government position on the assisted dying bill is one of neutrality" adding that they would look to the 'workability' of the issue if the bill passed into law.
It comes as Labour MP Kim Leadbeater advocates for changes to the controversial Assisted Dying Bill, insisting that replacing a High Court judge's oversight with a panel of experts will strengthen, rather than weaken, the safeguards meant to protect vulnerable individuals.
However, Christian groups warn this shift could make it easier for euthanasia to become more widely accepted in the UK.
Leadbeater is expected to introduce amendments that would establish a "judge plus" system, following discussions with medical and legal professionals last month. Under this proposal, psychiatrists and social workers—rather than a single High Court judge—would have the authority to approve assisted dying applications.
While individuals with legal expertise would still be present on the panel, opponents argue that reducing judicial oversight could diminish the level of scrutiny applied to these life-or-death decisions.
The bill now faces further scrutiny and votes in the Commons and Lords.
The push for this change comes after 50 witnesses, including health leaders, barristers, and palliative care doctors, testified before the assisted dying committee. While some raised concerns about the difficulties of requiring a judge’s approval, many fear that involving a broader range of professionals could lead to subjective or inconsistent decision-making regarding who qualifies for assisted suicide.
As the bill continues its journey through Parliament, pro-life advocates and Christian leaders remain steadfast in their opposition emphasising the sanctity of life and the biblical teaching that only God has the authority to determine the time and manner of a person's passing.
Many fear expanding the process to include non-judicial figures could further erode society’s respect for life, particularly for the elderly, disabled, and those struggling with mental illness.
Despite these concerns, Leadbeater defended her amendments, telling ITV News: “I think it's a really, really powerful way of strengthening [safeguards] even further.” She argued that the multidisciplinary approach would provide additional perspectives on end-of-life decisions.
However, there are critics who remain deeply troubled by the proposed bill. Many believe that true compassion lies not in facilitating death, but in improving palliative care, offering spiritual and emotional support, and affirming the inherent worth of every individual—regardless of their suffering.