The motion asked members of the House to agree that "further time should be provided for consideration of the Bill" so that it can be returned to the Commons in a reasonable time before the end of the parliamentary session. Scrutiny matters, but it must be proportionate, responsible and conducted in good faith. 

This motion passing tells us one important thing about the future of the Bill: 

The Lords do not want to see this Bill delayed by procedural game-playing and filibustering. Neither do I. Even those individuals who don’t personally support the Bill know – they must not obstruct a Bill that has both the widespread support of the public and the consistent backing of MPs. With this motion confirming that momentum is with us, please chip in today to ensure we can go the distance. 
 

The motion was supported by Peers from across the House - including many opponents who voiced their concern that bad-faith tactics from just seven hard-line opponents risks, not just the inability of the House to reach a decision on the Bill, but the reputation of the House of Lords itself. 

Dying people up and down the country have already been made to wait too long for choice. The Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill must be the Bill that changes things for them and puts an end to the cruelty of the status quo. 

It is once again thanks to your consistent advocacy for this Bill that members of the House of Lords have felt the surge in public pressure, resulting in a clear message: unelected politicians must not be permitted to stand in the way of democratic progress. And it will be thanks to you - and everything you do to support the campaign - that we will change the law.  

Onwards.

Sarah Wootton 
Chief Executive 
Dignity in Dying