Royal College of GPs Adopts Neutral Stance on Assisted Dying

The Royal College of General Practitioners (RCGP) has shifted from its long-standing opposition to assisted dying to a neutral stance, allowing it to better represent the diverse views of its members and patients. This decision came after a vote by the college's governing council, where 61% favored neutrality, while 39% supported maintaining opposition. A recent non-binding survey of RCGP members revealed that nearly half opposed legalizing assisted dying, while about a third were in favor of supporting it. Chairwoman Professor Kamila Hawthorne emphasized that this change does not signify a withdrawal from the debate but aims to advocate for members' concerns regarding potential legislative changes. The decision coincides with ongoing discussions in Parliament regarding the Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill, which seeks to legalize assisted dying in England and Wales. Advocacy groups like Care Not Killing expressed disappointment over the RCGP's new position, reflecting the ongoing tensions surrounding this sensitive issue.