Deep Dive
Why is the assisted dying bill being debated in the UK significant?
It marks a historic moment for the UK, which has one of the most punitive approaches to assisted dying in the liberal world. This is the first time assisted dying has been debated and voted on in the UK Commons in nearly a decade.
What are the key provisions of the assisted dying bill in the UK?
The bill would legalize medically assisted dying for terminally ill, mentally competent people with six months or less to live. It requires approval from two doctors and a high court judge over a minimum 21-day period. Coercion would carry a penalty of up to 14 years in prison.
Why is there a lack of voices from terminally ill people in the assisted dying debate?
The British public seems to be terrified of looking at death, and by refusing to hear from terminally ill individuals, society is abandoning them to face death alone.
What does Kit, a terminally ill patient, want for her death?
Kit wants to die in her husband's arms, falling asleep and not waking up, rather than in a hospital bed or drugged out of her mind. She believes assisted dying should be an option for people like her.
How does Gareth Ward describe his father's decision to end his life?
Gareth believes his father's act was not suicide but a mercy. His father, suffering from terminal cancer, wanted the pain and suffering to stop and took control of his death.
What challenges did Patrick, diagnosed with motor neurone disease, face in trying to end his life?
Patrick struggled to find a way to end his life legally, as assisted dying is illegal in the UK. He had to open a bank account in his name to order items discreetly, fearing prosecution if his plans were discovered.
What is the cost and process of using Dignitas in Switzerland?
Using Dignitas costs around £10,000 and involves a trip to Switzerland. The process is filmed and requires the individual to confirm their decision multiple times, with safeguards in place to prevent coercion.
Why does the current UK law on assisted dying force people into difficult choices?
The law forces terminally ill people to choose between suffering, attempting suicide, or going to Switzerland for assisted dying, which is costly and not accessible to everyone.
What is the current UK law on assisted dying, and how does it impact families?
The Suicide Act of 1961 makes assisting someone's suicide a crime, punishable by up to 14 years in prison. This causes stress and trauma for families, as they fear prosecution even for helping loved ones access Dignitas.
What is the role of palliative care in the assisted dying debate?
Palliative care aims to improve quality of life and mitigate suffering for terminally ill patients. However, it doesn't work for everyone, and some patients still face unbearable suffering despite receiving palliative care.
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