The Diocese of East Anglia wishes to remind parishioners and the wider community that the Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill 2024-25, which proposes the legalisation of assisted suicide for terminally ill adults under specific circumstances, has issued a call for evidence.
The Bill will proceed to Committee stage in the House of Commons tomorrow (21st January 2025). This is a crucial point in the legislative process, as evidence from individuals and organisations must be submitted without delay if it is to be considered by the Committee. Contributions should address the provisions of the Bill, focusing on areas where contributors have expertise or factual information to share.
Bishop Peter Collins recently spoke on BBC Radio Norfolk, expressing profound concerns about the potential consequences of the proposed legislation. He highlighted the seriousness of the debate, saying, “This is a critical moment for our society and such moments arise from time to time. With such a profound question about life and death, we must take great care in any alteration of the legislation and consider truly what principles are at stake here.”
The Bishop also underscored the importance of societal context and the interconnected nature of individual choices, stating, “Life is the defining ingredient of who we are and frames all of our other choices. When it comes to not merely the preservation of life, but understanding our life and its true dignity and value, then it’s more than simply a matter of my choice as opposed to your choice, because every individual choice will always leave an impact on others. This is a societal question and therefore the individual choice has a context.”
Those wishing to submit evidence are encouraged to ensure their contributions are clear and concise. Submissions should identify views or concerns with the Bill, suggest amendments with supporting explanations, or respond to any amendments tabled by Members of Parliament. Submissions should begin with a brief introduction about the contributor or their organisation and must not exceed 2,000 words. Paragraphs should be numbered, and additional essential details or statistics can be included as annexes.
Written evidence should be emailed in Word format to tiabill@parliament.uk. The covering email must include the name, address, telephone number, and email address of the person responsible for the submission, and submissions must be dated. Contributions previously published or circulated elsewhere cannot be accepted.
The Catholic Church upholds the sanctity and dignity of all human life, recognising life as a gift from God. Bishop Peter’s remarks serve as a call to engage thoughtfully and prayerfully with this debate, which touches the most profound questions of human existence. As the Committee stage approaches, parishioners are encouraged to make their voices heard while there is still time.
More information on the Bill and how to submit evidence can accessed here.
