Esther hails landmark as thousands call for assisted dying debate

DAME Esther Rantzen has said she’s inspired after a petition demanding a new Commons vote on assisted dying passed 10,000 signatures meaning the Government must now respond.

- Giles Sheldrick

DAME Esther Rantzen has said she's inspired after a petition demanding a new Commons vote on assisted dying passed 10,000 signatures meaning the Government must now respond.

The campaign hit the landmark just 24 hours after going live - and had rocketed through 12,000 names last night.

If it hits 100,000 it must be considered for a Commons debate.

Dame Esther, who has terminal cancer, has joined the Daily Express in the crusade for MPs to debate and vote on euthanasia.

The 83-year-old said: "Your response to the petition on assisted dying is moving and inspirational.

"The fact that so many thousands have added their signatures in such a short time proves this issue is incredibly important to a huge number of people who need a change in the law to give them choice, confidence and peace of mind.