GENERAL SYNOD AND EUTHANASIA

Early day motion 626, tabled 19 July 2005 by Lord Field of Birkenhead (Labour). Signed by 36 members.

That this House welcomes the news that the Church of England General Synod has again rejected the legalisation of both euthanasia and assisted suicide; notes that the vote rejected the legalisation of both euthanasia and assisted suicide; further notes that the vote was 293 against to one in favour; applauds His Grace the Archbishop of Canterbury for his courageous and forthright leadership on the issue; further notes that the overwhelming vote shows clearly that the occasional pro-euthanasia Church of England clergy who claim to speak for the Anglican Communion rather than the bishops is completely out of step with the body of the church; and calls on the Government to oppose any bills aimed at legalising physician-assisted suicide or euthanasia.

Signatures by party: Conservative 15, Labour 14, DUP 4, Liberal Democrat 1, Respect 1, UUP 1.