Allinson 'understands and respects' those opposed to assisted dying

MHKs made a significant vote approving the Bill

Ramsey MHK Alex Allinson, the mover of the controversial Assisted Dying Bill, says he 'understands and respects' those who are opposed to the legislation.

Members of the House of Keys voted to approve the proposals on the Isle of Man, marking the end of a string of lengthy and heated debates.

Over the past several months, MHKs have discussed and scrutinised in detail how the laws would work, by way of the clauses stage.

Sixteen members voted in favour, eight against.

Following approval of the third reading, the law ascends to the Legislative Council for MLCs to begin scrutinising the Bill, which could see it go one of three ways:

• MLCs could agree to pass the Bill in its current form, meaning it'll then move to Tynwald for one final approval before it is handed to the Ministry of Justice to gain Royal Assent.
• MLCs could amend the Bill, meaning it'll be sent back down to the House of Keys, prompting another debate on that amendment specifically again.
• MLCs could reject the Bill in its entirety, however, that doesn't prevent the legislation being progressed further as MHKs can pass it on their own, albeit with a required 17-strong majority.

LegCo cannot exercise an 'absolute veto', as this power was abolished in the 1960s.

Throughout the third reading, MHKs voiced their opinions, whether in favour or against.

Douglas North MHK David Ashford was confident enough in the final Bill to vote in favour:

However, worries remained over a 'lack of consultation' and 'inadequate' public involvement.

Previously attempts by the Chief Minister Alfred Cannan to put the Bill to a referendum were rejected.

Arbory, Castletown and Malew's Tim Glover and Onchan's Julie Edge voiced concerns as they voted against:

What happens next?

Politicians are all on summer recess so it won't be for at least three months before the assisted dying legislation is seen by the Legislative Council.

This is far from completing its journey though as LegCo is entitled to go through its own process to scrutinise the Bill.

There have also been some MHKs who have promised to attempt to put the Bill to a referendum again - whether that comes to fruition will only be seen if the proposal reaches Tynwald.

However, Dr Allinson will still need to 'lobby' a member of the Legislative Council to propose the Bill to the Upper House to ensure the ball continues to roll: