Sir Keir Starmer backs calls for change in law on assisted dying — after Dame Esther Rantzen sparked national debate

LABOUR leader Sir Keir Starmer has backed calls for a change in the law on assisted dying — after TV presenter Dame Esther Rantzen sparked a ­national debate on the issue.

He said there were “grounds for changing the law” to allow those who are terminally ill to have the option.

Childline founder Dame Esther, 83, said she may end her own life if treatment for her lung cancer does not improve her condition.

Sir Keir told reporters yesterday during a visit to Nato troops in Estonia: “Traditionally, this has always been dealt with in a private member’s bill and a free vote — and that seems appropriate to me.

“I personally do think there are grounds for changing the law.”

He backed a legislation change the last time the issue was voted on, in 2015.

The Labour leader had backed a change in the law the last time the issue was voted on in the Commons in 2015.

Health Secretary Victoria Atkins declined to say whether she thought it was time for another vote in Parliament.

She told the BBC: “As Health Secretary, I think actually, it’s right that I don’t express an opinion on this.”