CARE for Scotland comment: Royal College of Psychiatrists switches to oppose Assisted Suicide Bill

Scotland's Royal College of Psychiatrists today announced it was switching from a position of neutrality over Liam McArthur's Assisted Suicide Bill to being opposed after key safeguards were removed by MSPs.

This highly significant intervention comes just days before MSPs will vote at Stage Three for the final time on the Assisted Suicide Bill.

Responding to the change in position by the Royal College, CARE for Scotland today asked how MSPs can vote in good conscience for a Bill deemed unsafe by experts?

CARE for Scotland's Policy Officer, Michael Veitch, said:

“This is a very significant intervention from Scotland’s Royal College of Psychiatrists.

“They are essentially saying the Bill in its current form is unsafe.

“Given their highly regarded reputation and expertise in this area, how can MSPs now vote for the assisted suicide bill in good conscience?

“People across Scotland are relying on Members to prioritise safety over the deeply flawed concept of ‘choice’.

“This dangerous Bill is deeply flawed and will put pressure on the most vulnerable across our country.

“We continue to urge MSPs to reject this Bill next week.”

ENDS

Notes to editors:

CARE for Scotland is a social policy charity bringing a Christian perspective to public policy.

More on Scotland's Royal College of Psychiatrists switching to oppose the Assisted Suicide Bill here: https://www.rcpsych.ac.uk/memb...

For more information or interview requests: james.mildred@care.org.uk / 07717516814