LONDON — The details of a proposed law aimed at legalizing assisted dying in England and Wales have been released, reigniting discussions on this sensitive issue as a parliamentary vote approaches later this month.
The draft legislation, introduced on Monday, seeks to permit terminally ill adults who are anticipated to have less than six months to live to request assistance in ending their lives, contingent on certain safeguards and protections.
Critics have expressed concerns regarding the potential for vulnerable individuals to feel pressured to opt for assisted death. However, Labour MP Kim Leadbeater, who sponsored the bill, emphasized that it incorporates strong protective measures, requiring “three layers of scrutiny.” This means that two doctors along with a High Court judge must approve any assisted death request.
A discussion and initial vote on the bill are scheduled for November 29. Prime Minister Keir Starmer mentioned that he would review the bill’s provisions and would refrain from influencing any Member of Parliament’s vote.
What provisions does the bill include?
The proposed legislation specifies that only individuals over 18 years old in England and Wales diagnosed with terminal illnesses expected to result in death within six months are eligible to request assisted dying. They must demonstrate the mental capacity to decide about their end-of-life options and are required to make two distinct declarations expressing their desire to die. Two independent doctors must confirm the individual’s eligibility, and approval from a High Court judge is necessary for the decision to proceed.
Individuals found guilty of pressuring or deceiving someone into making a declaration for assisted dying could face a prison sentence of up to 14 years.
Currently, assisted suicide is illegal in most areas of the U.K., with Scotland not designating it as a specific criminal offense; however, assisting someone’s death could still lead to legal charges.
Who administers the medication?
The legislation stipulates that patients must self-administer the medication intended to end their lives, prohibiting any medical professional or third party from handing it over. Healthcare professionals are not required to assist in the procedure, and those who participate must confirm that the individual has voluntarily made the decision and is fully informed about their choice.
What are the subsequent steps?
Following its debate, the bill will be subject to voting by Parliament members based on their individual beliefs rather than party directives. There appears to be a division of opinion among lawmakers, with some senior figures, including Health Secretary Wes Streeting, indicating intentions to oppose the bill. Although Starmer has previously expressed support for assisted dying, the government has stated it will take a neutral stance on the matter.
If the bill successfully passes its initial stage in the House of Commons, it will undergo further examination and voting in both Houses of Parliament. Leadbeater has warned that, even if the law were to be enacted, it might not be operational for another two to three years.
Do other nations have similar legislation?
One argument in favor of the bill highlights the disparity in access to assisted suicide, noting that affluent individuals can travel to Switzerland, where the practice is legal for foreigners, while others might face criminal prosecution for aiding their loved ones in dying. Countries such as Australia, Belgium, Canada, and various states in the U.S. have also legalized assisted suicide, but eligibility requirements can differ widely.
It is important to note that assisted suicide is distinct from euthanasia, which is permitted in the Netherlands and Canada, where healthcare professionals may perform lethal injections for patients at their request under specific conditions.