Parliamentary.ai

Overview

This bill aims to legalize assisted dying for competent adults in England and Wales who are terminally ill. It establishes a rigorous framework involving multiple medical professionals and court oversight to ensure the process is voluntary, informed, and free from coercion.

Description

The Assisted Dying (No.2) Bill allows terminally ill adults to request assistance in ending their life under strict conditions. The individual must be:

• Over 18 years old
• Ordinarily resident in England and Wales for at least one year
• Diagnosed with a terminal illness with a life expectancy of six months or less
• Possess the mental capacity to make the decision
• Express a voluntary, clear, settled, and informed wish to die

A formal declaration must be made, witnessed, and countersigned by two independent doctors. The High Court (Family Division) must also approve the request. The attending physician, or an authorized health professional, may then provide the means to end the patient's life, but the final act must be performed by the patient themselves. The bill also includes provisions for conscientious objection and detailed regulatory frameworks to govern the process, along with monitoring and reporting requirements. The bill includes measures to ensure patient safety and to prevent abuse.

Government Spending

The bill does not specify direct government spending figures. However, the implementation will likely incur costs associated with establishing the regulatory framework, monitoring, and reporting processes. The extent of these costs remains to be determined.

Groups Affected

• Terminally ill adults: This bill could provide a legal option for those suffering from incurable and unbearable illnesses to choose assisted dying.
• Medical professionals: Doctors and nurses will have new responsibilities under the bill, including assessment, declaration countersignature, and potentially assisting with medication administration. The bill provides for conscientious objection.
• Families and carers: Families may be affected by the emotional and practical implications of their loved ones' decisions regarding assisted dying.
• The judiciary: The High Court will play a key role in reviewing applications for assisted dying.
• The public: The public's views on assisted dying will significantly influence the debate and future of the bill.