UK and Scottish Assisted Dying Bills Highlight Key Differences and Challenges

Ongoing debates focus on age limits, suffering criteria, and legal safeguards as lawmakers scrutinize proposed legislation in Westminster and Holyrood.

The UK's proposed Assisted Dying Bill would allow terminally ill adults in England and Wales with less than six months to live to seek assisted death, subject to approval by two doctors and a High Court judge.
Scotland's Assisted Dying Bill proposes a lower age limit of 16, raising concerns about potential cross-border disparities and the need for clarity on the definition of adulthood.
Former High Court judge Sir Nicholas Mostyn argues for redefining terminal illness to focus on intolerable suffering rather than a strict six-month life expectancy, citing personal concerns as a Parkinson’s patient.
Medical professionals stress the importance of safeguards, with calls for an information service, emotional support for participating doctors, and the option for medical staff to opt out of involvement in assisted dying procedures.
Police Scotland warns the Scottish legislation could lead to legal and investigative challenges, including potential family disputes and accusations of coercion in assisted death cases.