Only a few weeks into the new Parliament, we are already facing a new threat to legalise assisted suicide. On Friday, the Lord’s ballot for private members bills was held, and Lord Falconer, with his Assisted Dying for Terminally Ill Adults Bill, won second place. You can read about this here.

This Bill is part of a concerted attempt to impose assisted suicide across the UK. A Bill is also being debated on the Isle of Man. It has already been approved in principle in Jersey, with politicians there now working out the details.

But the most immediate threat is a bill before the Scottish Parliament in Holyrood. Liam McArthur MSP’s Assisted Dying Scotland Bill was introduced on 27 March 2024.

What can I do?

The Health, Social Care and Sport Committee at Holyrood has put out a call for evidence, asking for views on the Bill. This consultation is important, because the Committee will recommend whether the Bill be taken forward.

Please respond to this consultation by 16 August 2024.

There is a short survey and a more detailed call for evidence. SPUC has produced a guide explaining both options and giving advice on how to respond to the questions.