Under the proposed legislation, only those over 18 years old in England and Wales and who are expected to die within six months can request assisted dying. They must have the mental capacity to make a choice about the end of their life and will be required to make two separate declarations about their wish to die.

We believe that a truly compassionate response to the end of life lies in the provision of high-quality palliative care services to all who need them.”

Lord David Cameron had previously opposed moves to legalise assisted dying - but has now come out in support for the idea ahead of a debate on Friday

The United Kingdom may become the next country to legalize assisted suicide. The legislation is sponsored by Kim Leadbeater, a British politician who is part of the Labour Party. The bill is expected to be read a second time in the House of Commons on Friday.