MPs vote in Favour of Assisted Dying Bill

Nov 29 2024

A historic vote in the House of Commons has advanced Labour MP Kim Leadbeater’s Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill, which seeks to legalise assisted dying in England and Wales. The bill, which allows terminally ill persons with six months or less to live to request medical aid to terminate their life, won 330 votes in support and 275 against it, for a 55-percent majority.

As a result, the bill will now be sent to committee for further scrutiny. MPs were given a free vote, which allowed them to make decisions based on their conscience rather than party affiliation.

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and Chancellor Rachel Reeves supported the plan, but Health Secretary Wes Streeting and Justice Secretary Shabana Mahmood opposed it, citing concerns about pressure and a “slippery slope.”

The debate lasted five hours and featured impassioned speeches from MPs on both sides. Conservative Andrew Mitchell shared heartfelt anecdotes from constituents about loved ones dying in anguish, while Labour’s Diane Abbott cautioned that the plan might make vulnerable people feel burdened.

Ms. Leadbeater praised the proposal as providing “choice, autonomy, and dignity,” arguing that the existing system fails terminally sick people. The legislation will also be debated in the House of Lords before it is signed into law.

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Bill To Legalise Assisted Dying For Terminally Ill Being Debated In UK

Nov 29 2024

A proposed bill to legalise assisted dying for terminally ill adults in England and Wales, the Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill, has been formally introduced in the House of Commons.

MPs will debate and vote on the bill on 29 November, though further legislative steps are required for it to become law.

The bill allows terminally ill individuals over 18 to receive medical assistance to end their own lives under strict conditions.

Eligibility requires the individual to reside in England or Wales, be registered with a GP for at least 12 months, have mental capacity, and face a prognosis of death within six months.

Two independent doctors must confirm the criteria are met, and the process must include multiple signed declarations, judicial approval, and safeguards against coercion.

Under the proposal, only the patient can administer the approved substance, with a doctor present throughout the process.

Doctors may choose not to participate, and any pressure to induce a declaration or action under coercion would be punishable by up to 14 years in prison.

The bill raises questions about cost, judicial procedures, and oversight. Similar legislation is being explored in Scotland, Jersey, and the Isle of Man, reflecting ongoing debate across the UK.

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Beats & Botanicals: Cocktails, Music & Magic Under the Stars

Nov 29 2024

🌿 Join us on November 30th at Beats & Botanicals 🌿 5pm onwards at Hideout in Pembroke.

Music and mixology meet for an unforgettable night under the stars. Nestled at the unique Hideout BMX Track, this vibrant evening kicks off with tasting sessions from 5 PM to 7 PM—offering complimentary tasting shots 🥃 for all entrants and a selection of delicious, discounted cocktails 🍹 to introduce you to the full menu.

As the evening unfolds, get ready for a live performance by the talented KEVIN PAUL 🎤, setting the vibe before our lineup of top DJs—KAVALL, LORENZO, and DJ SAR 🎧—take the stage, spinning beats that will keep you dancing late into the night. 🎶

Sip on premium cocktails all evening 🍸, courtesy of our main sponsors, Lascaris Vodka and Islands8 Gin, with support from Juice Mama, London Essence, Vibe FM, Triple A, BEKO and Hideout.

Expect a blend of fresh botanicals 🌱, zingy garnishes 🍋🍊, and expert mixes, making every drink a highlight of the experience.

Whether you’re there for the music, the cocktails, or the company, Beats & Botanicals promises an evening of relaxation, rhythm, and refreshment in an atmosphere like no other. ✨ Don’t miss out!

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Marzia Maatouk To Be Given Final Farewell After Body Returned

Nov 29 2024

The body of 24-year-old Marzia Maatouk, who was found dead in Libya six months ago, was repatriated to Malta on Thursday night, providing some closure to her grieving family.

The Maltese Foreign Affairs Ministry confirmed the development with Times of Malta, marking the culmination of months of discussions and coordination between the ministry’s Consular Services Directorate, the Maltese Embassy in Libya, and Libyan authorities.

Marzia had fled Malta with her husband, Jomic Calleja Maatouk, in August last year after he was sentenced to prison for drug-related crimes. Both were on Europol’s most wanted list before being located in Libya. Marzia’s body was discovered in May in Gharyan, Libya, while her husband was arrested.

Investigations into possible foul play delayed the repatriation. The Maltese Consul in Libya recently facilitated the transfer of her body to Tripoli, where final arrangements were made. Libyan authorities have not confirmed if foul play was involved.

Her family, who had long sought answers, expressed gratitude for the support received during this ordeal. Marzia’s husband remains detained in Libya as the family continues to seek clarity about the circumstances of her death.

#MaltaDaily