The Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby, is set to meet with MP Kim Leadbeater, the proponent of a bill to legalise assisted dying, after he voiced concerns about the proposed legislation.
Welby recently expressed that such a law could lead to a “slippery slope”, resulting in expanded criteria and undue pressure on vulnerable individuals to end their lives prematurely.
Leadbeater, the member for Spen Valley, responded in writing to Welby, proposing a meeting to discuss the issue.
According to The Guardian, Lambeth Palace confirmed efforts are being made to schedule a convenient time.
Leabeater's proposal, the Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill, was introduced to the House of Commons earlier this week and is set for debate on 29th November.
MPs will have a free vote on the matter, allowing them to vote based on personal conviction.
In her letter, Leadbeater emphasised the importance of avoiding “discord and division” in the debate and reassured Welby that her bill seeks to provide more autonomy to those nearing death, while also easing suffering.
She disagreed with the Archbishop’s fears, stating that evidence from other countries shows that strict boundaries can be maintained if the law changes.
She also referenced her discussions with the British Medical Association, which now holds a neutral stance on assisted dying after surveying its members.
Leadbeater clarified that her bill is not focused on ending life, but rather on alleviating suffering in a controlled and transparent manner.
She expressed concern that current practices leave dying people and their families without proper support and oversight.
Furthermore, she noted that there is a diversity of views within the Church of England on the matter, and many Christians feel that the existing laws compromise the dignity and values of dying individuals.
In her letter, she acknowledged the complexity of the issue and the strong emotions it evokes but stressed that the debate should not result in lasting division.
Instead, she called for a discussion that fosters unity and compassion, with a shared goal of reducing suffering at the end of life.