'I WILL be voting to legalise what has already effectively been decriminalised.'

Those are the words of Bournemouth East MP Tom Hayes, who has voted in favour of a bill which will give terminally ill people in England and Wales the right to choose to end their life.

Speaking to his constituents, Mr Hayes said: "Caring for two disabled parents as a very young boy has shaped forever how I think about dignity and choice and the incredible importance of compassionate care.

"How we give people who feel powerless their power back. I have given this matter very serious and considered thought."

Mr Hayes rejected the "slippery slope" argument as fear-driven and unrelated to the principle itself.

He argued that risks, including coercion, are a reality in all areas of life and can be effectively managed and mitigated under the bill.

Hayes believes denying individuals the choice of assisted dying due to potential risks undermines personal freedom.

He added: "The safeguards in this bill include a role for two doctors and a judge, a 14-day cooling off period and a criminal offence with a sentence of up to 14 years for coercion—these are, in my view, not just sufficient to manage this risk, but remarkably robust methods of minimising cases of coercion.

"I will vote for this bill. I'll work to strengthen it further and lobby for better funding for palliative and hospice care. Everyone deserves compassion and dignity."