I’m delighted that the A1 has been earmarked for improvement as part of the Labour Government’s huge £27bn investment in roads from 2026-2031 (Road Investment Strategy 3).
#DavidSmithMP#NorthNorthumberland#Labour#A1#RIS3
Tomorrow we vote on the Assisted Dying bill. In the last few weeks I have continued to engage with constituents, clinicians, lawyers & Parliamentary colleagues about both the bill & the principles entailed in AS/AD. I remain convinced that the right choice is to vote against it.
There have been a lot of First Day photos (especially of Labour colleagues) so, not to be outdone…!
And just one other note: the House Staff, from security to catering to those helping with our induction have been absolutely superb. So welcoming and professional. Thank you!
The 3rd Reading of the #AssistedDyingBill is on Friday yet it remains hugely flawed. The PMB process has been woefully inadequate.
- Only 12 of 133 amendments tabled have had a vote
- Just 14% of MPs have had the chance to speak on it
Not good enough for such a profound change.
I’m totally humbled by the trust that the people of North Northumberland have placed in me, & the Labour Party tonight. It is the greatest honour of my life.
I’m still coming to terms with the magnitude of this trust and the amazing support I’ve received from so many. Thank you
Today I voted against the Assisted Dying Bill with hundreds of other colleagues from, but I was unable to make the speech that I had hoped to (here in two sections). As such I am sharing it here so that my constituents can understand more about my concerns with this Bill. (1/3)
I and Blair McDougall have written this piece in the @NewStatesman to highlight the costs - in every sense - if we were to introduce #AssistedDying.
There is a strong Labour case against AD. Here’s why:
An excellent article from @Jess4Lowestoft.
To me, in straightforward terms, the #AssistedDyingBill necessitates a decision: do we prioritise autonomy for individuals who have the agency to choose it, or solidarity with those who will be pressured into it?
I choose solidarity.
The Assisted Dying Bill is not progressive.
As I argue in the @DailyMirror, the cracks of inequality will become chasms in a world where an assisted death hangs over the most vulnerable - and they will fall through.
mirror.co.uk/news/politics/…
What an incredible few days. The magnitude of the result is still resonating as I hurtle towards London to begin my Parliamentary induction.
To everyone in North Northumberland: I promise to do you proud, to be your advocate and your servant.
I am saddened by today's vote. I made clear through the Assisted Dying process that the law is about protecting all of us, not just those with the loudest voices.
I am concerned we have opened a dangerous door. Those who want to choose will be able to choose. But... (1/2)
I am absolutely delighted and honoured to have been asked to become to United Kingdom’s Envoy on Freedom of Religion and Belief.
I look forward to taking forward the Government's commitment to supporting freedom of religion or belief for all.
A powerful, reasoned argument made by Ashley here on why she has reached the decision to vote against the Assisted Dying Bill today. I agree with every point she makes.