‘Clear majority’ of Britons support assisted dying – but only with safeguards, poll finds
Nearly two thirds of Britons (65%) support legalising assisted dying, according to a new poll from More in Common.
The data found only 13% oppose it, while 55% of Britons would consider seeking it if they were diagnosed with a terminal illness.
The support for legalisation spans age, gender, regions and voter groups, the research shows.
The More in Common polling also shows that there has historically been support for the measure. Britons were first polled on their attitudes to assisted dying for people with terminal illness 74 years ago in 1950, when 55% supported the principle and only 24% opposed it.
Now, in only seven British parliamentary constituencies, does support for the measure drop below 50%, according to the data.
You can explore support in your local area by using this interactive map.
However, the data found that support is firmly conditional on strong safeguards being put into place.
Some 62% of the public want more robust safeguards, even if it results in restricted eligibility, compared to 29% who favour minimal barriers and safeguards to avoid creating barriers to access.