Scotland’s First Minister John Swinney has said that he’ll oppose Holyrood assisted suicide legislation, citing his concern that people will face “undue pressure” to end their lives, and the potential for mission creep in legislation.
Dr Miro Griffiths, a disability studies scholar and spokesman for Better Way, commented:
“It’s encouraging to see an experienced politician highlighting problems with ‘assisted dying’, including the potential for mission creep in legislation. This issue was among dozens noted by Holyrood’s health committee in its recent report.
“The doubts MSPs have about the bill before Holyrood are well founded – problems are not solvable. People would feel pressure to die due to inequality; coercion of vulnerable people could not be ruled out; and eligibility criteria would be challenged in the courts.
“Issues of legislative competence also mean that conscience rights for medics cannot be guaranteed. MSPs should vote down the dangerous and unworkable Assisted Dying Bill and focus on improving ethical and progressive forms of support.”
About Better Way
Better Way opposes assisted suicide, sets out an alternative vision, and provides a platform for marginalised voices. The campaign is supported by experts in several fields including medicine, disability advocacy, and sociology.
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