The Scottish Parliament is set to hold a free vote on the controversial assisted dying bill, sparking heated debates and protests. Opponents argue the legislation crosses ethical boundaries by allowing the state to help end lives. Meanwhile, supporters insist it offers dignity and choice to terminally ill patients.
Outside Holyrood, campaigners gathered to voice their opposition ahead of the crucial vote. Among them was actor Liz Carr, who joined demonstrators warning against the dangers of the assisted dying bill. Critics fear it could pressure vulnerable individuals into ending their lives prematurely.
Pam Duncan-Glancy, a disabled MSP and Scottish Labour’s education spokesperson, strongly opposes the bill. She argues the state should focus on improving palliative care rather than assisting suicide. “We must prioritize living well, not dying,” she said. Duncan-Glancy emphasized the ethical risks of state involvement in life-ending decisions.
The assisted dying bill, introduced by Liberal Democrat MSP Liam McArthur in 2021, would allow terminally ill patients to request assisted death. Two doctors must confirm the patient has an incurable condition and retains mental capacity. Unlike proposals in England and Wales, McArthur’s bill sets no strict time limit for eligibility.
Former First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has also raised concerns. She worries the bill cannot prevent “internal coercion,” where patients might feel burdensome. “A right to die could become a perceived duty to die,” she warned. Other ex-leaders, including Humza Yousaf and John Swinney, also oppose the legislation.
Despite opposition, public support for the assisted dying bill remains strong. Fraser Sutherland of the Humanist Society Scotland called it a “mainstream” issue. He urged lawmakers to act with compassion. “Too many Scots suffer needlessly due to outdated laws,” he said.
McArthur defended the bill, saying the current system fails dying patients. Many endure unbearable pain or seek expensive options abroad. “Scotland must confront this issue now,” he insisted. The stage one vote will determine whether the bill proceeds to further scrutiny.
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