Not every MP will have a strong view on social issues. Matters relating to the economy, public services and the country’s place in the world are more likely to motivate an aspiring politician. They will then join a party, made up of others who are broadly (sometimes very broadly) of the same mind set and values. That party then obtains most of its votes from those who are sympathetic to its values. Once in parliament, an MP can safely follow the party line, unless they actively choose to go their own way.
Then along comes an issue such as assisted dying. It is unlikely that it is an issue that drew an individual MP into politics; it does not divide down party lines either in Westminster or the country; MPs are left to make up their own minds.
Content from our partners
