Even as the Assisted Dying bill grinds its way through the Westminster parliament, The Isle of Man is set to become the first place in the UK where assisted dying is legal, after a bill cleared the last parliamentary hurdle before royal assent.
Members of the legislative council approved a final reading of the Assisted Dying Bill on Tuesday.
Dr Alex Allinson, member of the House of Keys (MHK), said he was hopeful assisted dying can be legalised by later this year and become available by 2027.
The GP said he had "met many patients who have wanted this option" and described it as a privilege to have been able to bring the bill forward.
"It has been a long process, but it was something that, when I went into politics, I was committed to try to advance," he said.
"I'm very grateful to be in the privileged position of being able to bring this legislation through. People have been trying on the Isle of Man for the last 20 years to provide dignity and autonomy for those who are facing an imminent death.
"And I see this as a culmination of the efforts of many members of our community to provide for assisted dying for people on the Isle of Man."
The bill permits the state-backed killing of adults who have been residing on the island for five years and who have a terminal illness with a life expectancy of no more than 12 months.
Those against the Isle of Man's assisted dying bill have voiced concerns that legalising the practice could put pressure on vulnerable people to end their lives for fear of being a burden on others.
They argue the disabled, elderly, sick or depressed could be especially at risk.
It was reported last night that, even if it is passed, the Westminster version of this will not come into force for several years.