UK Assisted Dying Bill: There is currently a lot of discussion about a new bill in England and Wales. This bill is about the right to die. This bill is being brought by MP Kim Leadbeater. According to reports, such elderly people who are likely to die within six months will be able to avail this benefit. However, the decision to use it will have to be taken by oneself and for this it is necessary for them to be mentally healthy. Now the debate on this bill is over. Many people say that the possibility of its misuse is very high.
What is the whole matter?
After the right to die law is made, a special procedure will be adopted for this. Under this, a person wishing to die will have to prepare two separate declarations. Which will be done in the presence of witnesses and will also be signed by that person. In addition, two independent doctors will confirm that the person wishing to die is indeed in such a condition that he or she can be allowed to die. If necessary, this doctor can also take expert opinion. The High Court judge will then talk to at least one of these doctors and, if he or she feels like it, will also question the person who wishes to die. This entire process may take 7 to 14 days. If death is imminent then this time is fixed at 48 hours.
Who will monitor this law?
According to MP Kim Leadbeater, ‘The Chief Medical Officer of England and Wales and the Health Secretary will be authorized to monitor the law.’ The bill related to the right to die was introduced here earlier also. A similar law was discussed in the year 2015 also. After this, the Assisted Dying Bill was introduced in the House of Commons, but the MPs rejected it. One such bill reached the House of Lords in 2021-22. There is also discussion on the bill related to the right to die in July 2022 and April 2024.
Why is the Right to Die Bill being opposed?
MP Kim Leadbeater’s right to die bill is causing a lot of controversy. Many MPs say that there is a lot of potential for misuse of this law. Some people can force anyone to die by using wrong methods and force. Even at the last moment in Parliament, MPs opposed it.
