Next Thursday, a very important debate will take place in this House when the Dying with Dignity Bill 2020 is discussed. I understand there is a variety of views not only in political parties and this House but society as a whole on the subject. I call on the Minister to support a vote of conscience, not only in his party but across the Government parties. It is very important for society as a whole that there be a rational debate on the matter.

I am aware of the legislation and I spoke to the Deputy about it last week. It has not been discussed at Cabinet and I have not yet discussed it with my party. My understanding, and certainly with my party, is that such flexibility or such an approach is a real possibility. It is not the norm in this House but where there are matters of complex conscience and very different views, that tends to be a possibility. I certainly would not rule it out. Following discussion in my party we will revert on our approach. As I said, it has not yet been discussed by the Government and each party would really have to speak for itself in tune with the approach suggested by the Deputy, that this is not something on which we would divide on party political grounds.