The UK government is facing mounting pressure to respect the constitutional autonomy of the Isle of Man, following revelations of a significant delay in granting royal assent to the island's landmark assisted dying legislation.
Unprecedented Delay and Extensive Correspondence
Information obtained via a Freedom of Information request shows that the Ministry of Justice (MoJ) has written to the Isle of Man Government about its Assisted Dying Bill 12 separate times between March and early December 2025. This high volume of correspondence has been described as "relatively rare" and the accompanying delay as "extremely unusual."
The Isle of Man's parliament, Tynwald, made history in March 2025 by becoming the first in the British Isles to pass such a law. However, as a Crown Dependency, the bill requires a recommendation from the Lord Chancellor – currently David Lammy – and subsequent royal assent to become formal law. This process typically takes three to six months, but nine months on, assent has not been granted.
Growing Frustration and Calls for Respect
The politician behind the bill, GP and Member of the House of Keys (MHK) Dr Alex Allinson, has voiced strong concerns. He stated there is "growing concern on the Isle of Man about the delay," which is "frustrating for a lot of local residents who have campaigned for several decades for this change."
Dr Allinson, who introduced the private member's bill in 2022, told the Press Association he is "considering approaching the Ministry of Justice directly" to resolve any outstanding issues. He emphasised the importance of Westminster respecting the island's "independence and autonomy" in passing laws suited to its community.
The MoJ declined to disclose the contents of some correspondence, citing potential breaches of confidentiality and risks to its relationship with the Crown Dependencies.
The Bill's Provisions and Future Steps
The proposed law is designed with strict safeguards. It would apply only to adults resident on the island for at least five years, to prevent "death tourism." Eligible individuals must have a terminal illness with a life expectancy of no more than 12 months and possess a settled intention to end their life. Furthermore, doctors would have the freedom to opt in or out of providing the service.
Once royal assent is finally given, officials estimate an implementation period of between 18 months and two years will be required to establish the service, involving further legislation and consultation with medical professionals.
While campaigners have long sought this change, opponents argue that legalising assisted dying could place pressure on vulnerable people. They express concerns that the disabled, elderly, sick, or depressed might feel compelled to end their lives.
A Ministry of Justice spokesperson defended the timeframe, stating: "The length of time taken to pass Crown Dependency legislation depends on the complexities and sensitivities of a Bill, as well as any legal and constitutional issues. This makes sure legislation is properly considered, in line with good governance and international relations."
