British journalist, broadcaster and charity founder
Dame Esther Rantzen has died at 86 after a long illness, her family has announced. The broadcaster fronted That’s Life! for 21 years, founded Childline in 1986 and the Silver Line in 2012, and later campaigned publicly for legal change on assisted dying after a stage-four lung cancer diagnosis in 2023.
Lauren Laverne has disclosed that she has smouldering myeloma, an asymptomatic blood and bone marrow disorder that can develop into myeloma. She is not currently in treatment and will be monitored with tests while taking a short break from work.
MPs are back in the House of Commons facing the Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill. Supporters argue it offers dying adults a choice with safeguards, while opponents warn of risks to vulnerable people. The government remains neutral. A pivotal vote is expected this Friday, with the outcome likely to hinge on turnout and the Lords’ future role.
MPs have voted 286 to 270 against the Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill, ending the latest attempt to legalise assisted dying in England and Wales. Campaigners have reacted with despair outside Parliament, opponents have welcomed the decision, and ministers are urging renewed focus on palliative and social care funding.