MSPs told assisted suicide a 'Pandora's box'

Assisted suicide legislation before the Scottish Parliament would open a “Pandora’s box" and harm the most vulnerable, CARE for Scotland has said.

The social policy charity issued a statement as Holyrood’s Health Committee published its report on a member’s Bill from Liam McArthur MSP.

The committee did not comment on the ‘general principles’ of the Bill, as it relates to a matter of conscience, but points to issues identified during Stage 1 scrutiny.

Its report notes the potential for “human rights or other court challenges” that could result in “eligibility for assisted dying being extended over time”.

And it states that terminology in the Bill would make people who “may not be approaching death for a considerable period of time” eligible for assisted death.

James Mildred, spokesman for CARE for Scotland, said:

“The issues appraised in this report underline just how dangerous Mr McArthur’s Bill is. As critics have repeatedly warned, Scottish assisted suicide legislation would be open to challenges through the courts by those who wish to expand eligibility criteria.

“Other nations have experienced incremental expansion to their laws that sees a broad range of adults and even children made eligible for ‘assisted dying’. The assurances of campaigners in Scotland that expansion will not occur are hollow.”

Mr Mildred added:

“Alarmingly, the Health Committee’s report notes that the current, broad definition of terminal illness in the Bill would see people who are not approaching death able to end their lives - perhaps disabled people and people with anorexia.

“The committee further notes that the Bill may not be within the competency of the Scottish Parliament, saying it would be for the courts to iron out substantive issues about lethal substances, conscientious objection, and medics involved in the process.

“Legislating for assisted suicide opens a Pandora’s Box. The most vulnerable in society bear brunt of injustices. We would urge MSPs to oppose the Bill at Stage 1 and choose a different path for Scotland: truly life-affirming care that safeguards every patient.”

ENDS

About CARE for Scotland

CARE for Scotland is a social policy charity, bringing Christian insight to the policies and laws that affect our lives.

Contact us: press@care.org.uk