MP calls for assisted dying timeframe to be scrapped due to fears the process could be ‘rushed’
The assisted dying bill currently says that the service should be available to patients within four years.
But an MP has said this proposed deadline should be scrapped, as he fears it could lead to the first cases of assisted dying happening “regardless of how far along the plans and preparations are”.
Labour’s Adam Jogee said: “The last thing we should be doing is rushing this process”.
Instead, his amendment 42 to the bill would mean ministers must make a commencement order before patients can access assisted dying.
The amendment has not been added to the bill yet, but has the backing of more than 60 cross-party MPs.
One death because of a rushed decision would be one too many
Jogee explained to the Commons that a deadline means patients must be granted access to the service “regardless of how far along the plans and preparations are” in terms of the drugs used, the identification and training of those on the panel assessing patients, the impact on the NHS and budgets, among other things.
So, Jogee said: “Let’s not impose a timeframe that puts us in a bind and means we are driven by timing over purpose, and the pressure that comes with a ticking clock rather than by doing it properly.”
“One death because of a rushed decision would be one too many.
UK ‘not innovators’ – so assisted dying should be implemented sooner
By contrast, Lib Dem MP Tom Gordon has proposed shortening the time assisted dying is implemented to three years, speeding up the rollout.
His amendment is because he believes the “status quo is not acceptable” and people are having to travel abroad for assisted dying.
Addressing criticisms this would be rushed, he told the Commons: “We’re not innovators, we’re not leaders in the field.
“There is no reason that we can’t take best practice and learn and speak to colleagues around the world.”
