Britain's Parliament have overwhelmingly rejected plans to allow some terminally ill people to ask for medical help to end their life.

MPs voted 330 to 118 against the bill in the Common's first vote on assisted dying in 20 years.

The proposal would have allowed terminally ill people to end their life it they had been diagnosed as having less than six months to live. Safeguards included the involvement of two doctors and judge.

Figures on both sides of the debate argued passionately in the chamber, with many referencing those in their families diagnosed with terminal illnesses.

Those supporting the bill stressed that current legislation impinged on personal autonomy, while opponents feared it might leave elderly people under pressure from relatives to end their lives early.

Prime Minister David Cameron has opposed assisted dying, with an official spokesperson saying on Thursday:

“The PM’s views are clear on this issue. He is not convinced further steps need to be taken and he is not in favour of an approach that would take us closer to euthanasia.”