More research needs to take place into assisted dying before any new laws can be brought in - according to a Cumbrian MP

The topic of assisted dying has been high on the agenda for a number of MPs over recent years.

It was bought into the public eye again this week, when MP Andrew Mitchell, who is co-chair of a panel that is reviewing assisted dying laws, spoke about the subject on Sky News.

Mr Mitchell said that tight reforms could be introduced ahead of potential new laws coming into force in 2025.

MP for Copeland, Trudy Harrison, is on the side of assisted dying but further research and ongoing improvements are needed first.

She said: “Like many people, my opinions on assisted dying have been influenced by personal experience.

“My Dad passed away recently following a short but horrible battle with MND.

“I am personally on the side of assisted death being made available in the UK but would caveat that with the need for further research, ongoing improvements in care and much more informed patients and their families.

“I would not have encouraged an assisted death route for my Dad, but it certainly made me brutally aware of the pain of losing someone to a terminal illness, witnessing the daily decline of his ability.”

Speaking on Sky News this weekend, Mr Mitchell revealed that limited proposals on the topic may be able to command the support of parliament in the next four years.

He said: “These tight reforms could be introduced before 2025. We need to make clear that we are not looking here for a massive change. We are looking for very, very tight reform.

“I think that given the very limited nature of these proposals, that it would be for someone who is within six months of the end of their life, with very strong safeguards, the decision being made by a High Court judge, and by two doctors

However another Cumbrian MP, John Stevenson, who represents Carlisle, believes this is not a route the country should be going down.

He added: “I am sympathetic with people who think it’s the right thing to do, but I have long held the view that this is the thin end of the wedge and we should not go down that route.”