Assisted suicide

James Mildred  |  Features  |  politics & policy
Date posted:  1 Mar 2019
Share Add       
Assisted suicide

photo: iStock

On 11 September, 2015 I was in the office of CARE’s chief executive, Nola Leach.

Along with colleagues we were praying together as MPs debated the Rob Marris Assisted Dying Bill (No. 2). On that occasion, MPs overwhelmingly rejected the Bill, by 330 votes to 118. Many cited concerns about patient safety and pressure being put on the most vulnerable. That day was a great victory. But advocates of assisted suicide being legalised in the UK are not giving up. Having failed so far in Parliament, they have been attempting to advance their agenda through the courts, while all the time seeking to change MPs’ minds and shift public opinion.

Framing the pole

Meanwhile, the Royal College of Physicians, which is one of the UK’s most important medical bodies, has decided to survey its members on assisted suicide. Before the poll was even launched the College declared it would shift to a new default position of ‘neutral’ on assisted suicide unless a supra-majority of 60% either voted in favour of assisted suicide or against.

Share
< Previous article| Features| Next article >
Read more articles by James Mildred >>
Comment
This abortion law change is evil, pure and simple

This abortion law change is evil, pure and simple

MPs have approved the biggest change to abortion law in England and Wales for 50 years.It was done via …

Comment
The last best chance to stop assisted suicide Bill is here

The last best chance to stop assisted suicide Bill is here

We are drawing close to crucial debates and votes on Kim Leadbeater’s Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill.The …

About en

Our vision, values and history

Read more

Give a subscription

Our monthly newspaper is the perfect gift for those who love to think deeply

Give here