NEWLY installed North Ayrshire MP Irene Campbell has outlined her reasoning for backing the assisted dying bill which was voted through at the House of Commons on Friday.

Only five months into her posting, the Labour MP told us that she was fully aware of the gravity of the decision taken at the Houses of Parliament, which resulted in the free vote being in favour of the legislation.

MPs were given a free vote, meaning they could make a choice based on their own opinion rather than having to follow a party line.

Elected members supported a bill which would allow terminally ill adults expected to die within six months to seek help to end their own life by 330 to 275, a majority of 55.

Ms Campbell said: "Politics is a serious business and there are few issues more serious than the matter brought before the House of Commons on November 29.

"Over the past few weeks, many people have been in touch with me about assisted dying and the Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill.

"I have much appreciated the thoughtful and sincerely held views shared with me from people on all sides of this debate. Thank you to all who have shared often devastating and painful experiences of friends and family members leading up to the time of death.

"Everyone has their own views on this matter often shaped by personal experience. I have spent the past few weeks considering the extensive evidence that has been available.

"Many medical, legal professionals and charities have spent time discussing many issues with MPs during the lead up to this vote. The debate in the House of Commons showed that there are strong and strongly held views for and against this bill.

"I listened carefully to the five hours of debate and read letters and emails that have been sent to me from both sides.

"I have voted for the Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill at its second stage. This reflects the highly constrained nature of the change involved, limited to those approaching the very end of their life and the extensive safeguards that have been included.

"I respect those who have taken a different view, however, I believe that we should give choice to terminally ill people who are approaching death who wish to bring their suffering to an end."

The MP added: "To those of you who do not agree with my decision, please note that today’s vote is not the end of this debate and there will be a future vote on this matter next year.

"This debate will continue as the bill passes through parliament and issues raised will be fully considered during the committee process."

The bill will now face many more months of debate and scrutiny by MPs and peers, who could choose to amend it, with the approval of both Houses of Parliament required before it becomes law.