In Plain English
AI-generatedThis Act updates the law around decisions made for people who may lack mental capacity. It has completed its passage and received Royal Assent, so it is now law. A notable amendment proposed in December 2018 was rejected by the House.
Key Points
- The Mental Capacity (Amendment) Act 2019 has become law after Royal Assent.
- It originated in the Lords before moving to the Commons.
- A notable amendment by Mr Corbyn in December 2018 was defeated (229 Aye, 304 No).
- Party positions showed Labour (Co-op) and several smaller groups supported the measure, while the Conservatives and the DUP opposed; other parties' positions were mixed.
Progress
The bill has completed all parliamentary stages and received Royal Assent; it is now law.
Voting
The key amendment in December 2018 was defeated 229 to 304. Labour and some smaller parties supported the measure, while the Conservative Party and the DUP opposed; SNP, Sinn Féin and Liberal Democrats were mixed.
Who is affected?
People who may lack mental capacityFamilies and carers of those peopleHealthcare and social care professionalsHospitals, care homes and social services organisationsGuardians, attorneys and other decision-makers under the mental capacity frameworkCourts, tribunals and local authorities applying or enforcing mental capacity rules
Generated 21 February 2026