What the assisted dying debate told us about the bill's chances - and what may lie ahead

This debate was not a make or break moment for the bill, but it offered a few hints about what may lie ahead. As MPs put forward possible amendments, the majority voiced concerns or doubts about various clauses of the legislation. However, this was to be expected. They were not there to rehash the "in principle" debate which took place last November - and saw MPs back the landmark bill by 330 to 275 votes.

The day was instead about reviewing changes made during the committee stage and proposing further amendments to craft the best possible legislation. In recent days, a few MPs have publicly declared plans to change their vote at third reading.

These include Andrew Snowden, who announced he would change his vote from "yes" to "no", and Karl Turner, who will move from "yes" to abstaining.

Meanwhile, some of those who were wavering appear to have been reassured that the legislation is returning to the Commons stronger.

Labour MP Dr Marie Tidball, who voted cautiously in favour of the bill in November, played a key role in the committee stage and says she has been so reassured that she plans to vote for the bill again.

There were no great surprises during the debate. Most speakers echoed their previously declared positions.

This is perhaps a sign that opinion in Westminster has not shifted as much as opponents (and some corners of the media) claim.

Supporters of the bill remain quietly confident that they will retain majority backing. And some MPs are understood to have switched from "no" to "yes" without yet declaring this publicly.

As the day continued, it was clear that no amount of time would have been sufficient to fully explore every possible argument around the complex topic of assisted dying.

Opponents will try to paint the process as a chaotic one which did not allow enough time for proper scrutiny.

However, the tight timescale is not unique to the legislative process for Private Member's Bills. Many Government bills have seen even more amendments dealt with in a single day.

Outside Parliament, campaigners on both sides of the fence made their voices heard.

In the supporter's camp, terminally ill cancer patient Maddie Cowey shared I have heard.

Diagnosed with aggressive sarcoma at 18, the 27-year-old has known for years that the disease will eventually claim her life.

Having the option of assisted dying would bring her such comfort, whether or not she eventually used it.

Maddie's presence outside Parliament was a heartbreaking reminder that for some campaigners, this crucial bill's fate will decide how they end their lives.