Right to die free vote bid
Date published: 25 September 2012
A call from Oldham MEP Chris Davies for a free vote on right-to-die legislation is being backed by Lib-Dems.
Mr Davies offered the motion at the party conference in Brighton and has long campaigned on the issue. The conference approved the motion.
Mr Davies said it is time for Parliament to act: Belgium and the Netherlands have proved laws can be framed to include safeguards that prevent abuse.
“More than 200 British citizens have now made their way to Switzerland to have their wishes met and secure help to die. MPs should be given the chance to have a free vote to allow people, in specific circumstances, to end their life with medical help,” he said.
The move gained cautious approval from Oldham East and Saddleworth MP Debbie Abrahams.
“In principle I believe terminally ill, mentally competent adults should have the choice of an assisted death within strict legal safeguards.
“However, I cannot give my commitment to supporting a change in the law without reading any proposed legislation extremely carefully.”
Only a small number of our daily stories appear, heavily edited, on this site. For the full story read our print or eChron editions.
Follow us on Twitter - @OldhamChronicle
Most Viewed News Stories
- 1The primary school where pupils ‘take on leadership roles’ and teachers ‘are proud to work’
- 2Top chef praises bosses despite hospitality business failing
- 3Eight talented Oldham dancers gear up ahead of making a dream appearance in Swan Lake
- 4Brook retain trophy as they head for treble
- 5Family pay tribute to ‘much-loved son, brother and uncle’ following fatal road collision