First step towards assisted dying bill in Scotland welcomed

An independent Member of the Scottish Parliament has taken the first step towards introducing a bill legalising assisted suicide in Scotland, a move welcomed by the British Humanist Association (BHA) as ‘Progress in the campaign for a compassionate law that respects the rights of the individual whilst protecting the vulnerable’.

Margo MacDonald, an independent MSP for the Lothians region, has reportedly submitted a consultation document httpfor a proposed Assisted Suicide (Scotland) Bill. In 2010, Ms McDonald sponsored the End of Life Assistance Bill, which would have permitted people suffering intolerably from a degenerative condition or terminal illness to seek assistance from a doctor to end their life. This Bill was heavily attacked by religious groups in Scotland http, and was subsequently defeated in a parliamentary vote in December 2010.

Commenting on the reports, BHA Head of Public Affairs Naomi Phillips said
‘Ideally we would see reform of the law throughout the UK, however, we strongly support any progress towards a system whereby the wishes and autonomy of terminally ill or otherwise incurably suffering individuals is respected, and last year made a submission in support of Margo Macdonald’s original Bill.

‘It is so important that individuals’ right to die with dignity in a manner of their own choosing is clearly affirmed in legislation, and we would like assisted dying, with strict legal and medical safeguards, legalised throughout the UK.’

Related articles:

1. Important inquiry into assisted dying is launched
2. Continuing legality of assisted suicide in Switzerland is not an excuse to stop reform in the UK
3. BHA gives evidence to Commission on Assisted Dying
4. Evidence to the Assisted Dying Commission “emphasises the urgent need for reform” says the BHA
5. BHA submits written evidence to Commission on Assisted Dying