The Labour MP for Peterborough says he is “disappointed” with the result of today’s vote on the Assisted Dying Bill.  

The proposed law to legalise assisted dying in England and Wales cleared its first parliamentary hurdle today after 330 MPs voted in favour, to 275 against.    

Peterborough MP Andrew Pakes announced that he would be voting against the Bill ahead of the debate in Parliament.  

In a statement released to constituents this afternoon, he said: “I’m disappointed with today’s result on assisted dying. 

“I voted against the proposals as I still have concerns about the Bill and its wider implications.” 

He added: “Thank you to everyone who got in touch throughout this debate. The discussion has shown we can discuss complex issues with respect, compassion and care.  

“This is just the first step in the legislation. The Bill will now progress to the next stage where there will be more opportunities for scrutiny.  

“I will continue to ensure the Bill is scrutinised as it progresses through Parliament.” 

The five Cambridgeshire MPs who voted in favour of the Bill were: Ian Sollom, the Lib Dem MP for St Neots and Mid-Cambridgeshire; Charlotte Cane, the Lib Dem MP for Ely and East Cambridgeshire; Sam Carling, the Labour MP for North West Cambridgeshire; Pippa Heylings, the Lib Dem MP for South Cambridgeshire; and Daniel Zeichner, the Labour MP for Cambridge Lab.   

Steve Barclay, the Conservative MP for North East Cambridgeshire, and Huntingdon MP Ben Obese-Jecty (Cons) also voted against.