Humanism respects the autonomy of the person, and so we are in favour of the right to choose to end one’s own life, subject to appropriate qualifications and safeguards.
Margo MacDonald MSP has recently introduced consultation on a proposed Assisted Suicide (Scotland) Bill
Main provision of the proposed bill:
- It will give any person who meets the eligibility requirements the right to request medication to end their own life.
- It will set-out a straightforward process for a qualifying person to follow, involving initial registration followed by two formal requests.
- It will decriminalise the actions of those who assist a qualifying person to end their own life within the parameters set by the Bill.
- It will require a trained and “licensed facilitator” to be present when a qualifying person takes their own life.
Copies of the consulation paper can be found at: http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/parliamentarybusiness/Bills/29731.aspx.
An official response from HSS to the Assisted Suicide (Scotland) Bill consultation was made on the 30th April 2012. A copy of the response can be downloaded here (PDF).
HSS fully supports Margo MacDonald MSP in her introduction of the Assisted Suicide Bill to the Scottish Parliament.
Members can discuss our AS policy, or join the team.
