Labour MP Luke Pollard's absence from crucial assisted dying vote raises questions

Luke Pollard's decision to remain in Plymouth rather than vote on the assisted dying bill's final reading has sparked controversy among constituents.

Plymouth Sutton and Devonport MP Luke Pollard has faced criticism from constituents after missing the crucial third reading vote on the assisted dying bill last Friday. The Labour MP, who had previously voted in favour of the bill at its second reading in November, was marked as "abstain/absent" when the bill passed its final Commons vote by a narrow majority of 23.

When questioned on Facebook about his absence, Pollard stated: "I was in Plymouth today, but we had the votes to secure the bill." However, the MP did not specify why he chose not to make the journey to Westminster for what many considered a pivotal moment in British legislative history.

Reports from Plymouth residents on social media confirmed that Pollard was seen canvassing in the city during the day of the vote, encouraging Plymothians to vote against choosing their own leader in the upcoming 17th July referendum. Later, the MP posted an image on his own social media showing himself with a pint of beer at Plymouth's Royal William Yard, raising questions about his priorities during such a significant parliamentary day.

The image of the MP promoting alcohol consumption has also drawn criticism given Plymouth's serious struggles with alcohol-related issues. Recent statistics show that 81 people died due to alcohol in Plymouth between 2016-18, while drug deaths in the city are more than twice the UK national average. Local charity Harbour Centre, which has been providing drug and alcohol services to people with complex lives for over 30 years, continues to support those affected by addiction across the city.

The timing has particularly frustrated constituents who note that Pollard had previously made the effort to travel to Westminster for other controversial votes. Critics pointed out that the MP had attended Parliament on 8th January 2025 to vote against an inquiry into the rape gangs scandal, making his absence from the assisted dying vote all the more conspicuous.

The assisted dying bill passed its third reading with 314 votes in favor and 291 against, securing a majority that was more than halved from the 55-vote margin at second reading. Among Labour MPs, support dropped from 234 to 224, with several members switching their positions or choosing to abstain.

Pollard's absence was part of a broader trend, with 18 MPs either abstaining or absent for the vote. The MP had previously engaged extensively with constituents on the issue, setting up consultation processes and publishing detailed explanations of the bill's provisions on his website.

The MP's absence has generated significant discussion among Plymouth residents, with many questioning why their representative could not prioritise what they viewed as a once-in-a-generation vote on end-of-life care. The contrast between Pollard's previous attendance for other contentious votes and his decision to remain in Plymouth for constituency activities has become a focal point of criticism.

As Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for the Armed Forces, Pollard holds a government position that requires careful consideration of how his time is allocated between Westminster duties and constituency responsibilities. However, critics argue that the historic nature of the assisted dying vote warranted his presence in Parliament.

Questions have also been raised about how Pollard knew that there were enough votes to pass the bill at its third reading, given that the government was neutral on the issue of assisted dying and did not whip Labour MPs.

Plymouth's other MPs were split on the issue. Labour's Fred Thomas (Plymouth Moor View) supported the bill while the Conservative's Rebecca Smith voted against.

Fred Thomas MP stated in a Facebook post:

"This Bill contains significant safeguards - the need to have the mental capacity to make the choice; the need to have expressed a clear, settled and informed wish, free from coercion; the need to be expected to die within 6 months; the need for two separate declarations; and the need for approval from two independent doctors. I am satisfied that these safeguards will protect vulnerable people, and I will vote to legalise assisted dying today."

Rebecca Smith MP stated:

"I am disappointed by this outcome. Whilst I respect the sincerity of members who supported it, I could not support legislation that lacked vital safeguards and voted against the Bill today. I will continue to speak up for vulnerable people and press for stronger oversight and protections in any future proposals."

"We have a duty to ensure that those who may be at risk are properly safeguarded, and I will always take that responsibility seriously."

The assisted dying bill now moves to the House of Lords, where it will face further scrutiny before potentially becoming law. Whether Pollard's constituents will remember his absence when future crucial votes arise remains to be seen.

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