Overview

This bill proposes to legalize assisted dying for terminally ill adults in England and Wales. It establishes a rigorous and tightly controlled process involving multiple medical assessments, periods of reflection, and court approval to ensure the safety and protection of vulnerable individuals.

Description

Eligibility

The bill allows terminally ill adults (defined as having an irreversible illness leading to death within six months) who are 18 or older, ordinarily resident in England and Wales for at least a year, and registered with a GP practice, to request assistance to end their life. They must have the capacity to make this decision and demonstrate a clear, settled, and informed wish to die without coercion.

Procedure

The process includes: an initial request (first declaration) witnessed by a coordinating doctor and an independent witness; assessments by a coordinating doctor and an independent doctor; a mandatory period of reflection (7 days after the first assessment); a court application for a declaration that all requirements have been met; a second period of reflection (14 days or 48 hours depending on prognosis); a second declaration if the person still wishes to proceed; and finally, the provision of an approved substance by the coordinating doctor for self-administration.

Safeguards

Numerous safeguards are built into the process. These include the involvement of multiple independent doctors, mandatory periods of reflection, the possibility of a second opinion from another independent doctor, court approval, and protection for health professionals who choose not to participate. The bill also outlines offences for dishonesty, coercion, or falsification of documents in relation to assisted dying.

Government Spending

The bill does not explicitly state figures for government spending. However, it is anticipated that resources will be required to establish the regulatory framework, train medical professionals, and potentially provide services through the NHS. The exact cost remains to be determined.

Groups Affected

This bill would affect several groups:

• Terminally ill adults: Provides a legal pathway to assisted dying under strict conditions.
• Medical professionals: Obligates some to participate in assessments and the process, while protecting others from mandatory involvement. Could affect workload and professional ethics.
• Families and loved ones: May experience emotional stress related to the decision-making process and outcomes.
• The Judiciary: Will be responsible for overseeing court applications.
• The Government: Responsible for implementing the regulatory framework and overseeing the process.

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