Humanists disappointed by Lords decision on assisted dying

8 July 2009

The British Humanist Association (BHA) has expressed deep disappointment that Peers in the House of Lords have voted against an amendment which would reform the law on assisted dying. Peers voted on Lord Falconer of Thoroton's amendment to the Coroners and Justice Bill, which would have removed the threat of prosecution of friends and relatives who compassionately accompany terminally ill loved ones abroad to die in a country where assisted dying is legal.

Naomi Phillips, BHA Public Affairs Officer, said, 'Peers have today voted against a reform in the law which would take away the threat of prosecution from people who accompany loved ones abroad for an assisted death. This is deeply disappointing. They have failed to listen to public opinion which is overwhelmingly in favour of even wider reform on the law on assisted dying.'

Ms Phillips continued, 'A crucial opportunity has now been lost, to make the law governing assisted dying more rational and legitimate and more ethical.'

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