Britain argues over assisted dying: What to know about the emotive debate
Al Jazeera
The legislation would allow terminally ill patients with six months or less to live to end their lives.
London, United Kingdom – Britain is debating the issue of assisted dying after a bill to legalise it in England and Wales was formally introduced in parliament last week – the first attempt to change the law in a decade.
If it were enacted, assisted dying would legally give terminally ill, mentally competent adults with six months or less to live the right to choose to end their lives with medical help.
Since the 1961 Suicide Act, it has been illegal in England and Wales to encourage or assist suicide, and those found guilty face up to 14 years in prison.
Labour MP Kim Leadbeater, who is behind the bill introduced on October 16, said in a statement that it was “important” to get the legislation right with “the necessary protections and safeguards in place” so those with disabilities or mental illnesses do not feel pressured into taking the decision – which opponents of the bill argue could happen.
The debate over the polarising issue has moved religious figures and bodies.
