LIFE CHANGING

Historic Commons vote win sparks mixed emotions

AFTER a debate packed with emotion and harrowing tales of suffering, MPs offered hope to terminally ill people who wish to pass away with dignity.

They yesterday took a step towards legalising assisted dying by voting 330 to 275 in favour of taking the bill to its next stage.

The historic move sparked joy among those who have been calling for sick people to be allowed to die without suffering, but also sorrow from those who believe life should be preserved.

Assisted dying campaigner Dame Esther Rantzen said she was "absolutely thrilled" with the result of the vote.

The former presenter, who has terminal cancer, said changing the law is unlikely to impact on her as it could take up to two years to implement. She accepts she will have to go to Swiss clinic Dignitas for a pain-free ending but added: "I will do so in the knowledge that future generations will be spared the ordeals we have to suffer.

"I listened to the debate and it was very deeply felt. Members of Parliament, whether they opposed it or proposed it, had obviously given it a great deal of thought." Anil Douglas, whose dad lan took his own life after suffering multiple sclerosis for years, said he was "over the moon" the bill has gone to its third reading.