Swinney Expresses Concerns on Assisted Dying Bill

Scottish First Minister John Swinney has expressed that he is still 'wrestling' with the issue of assisted dying, particularly concerning proposals to allow 16 and 17-year-olds to have the right to end their lives. While he has significant concerns regarding the age threshold, which is two years younger than similar legislation in England, he stated that he has not reached a final decision. The Assisted Dying for Terminally Ill Adults (Scotland) Bill is currently at stage one in Parliament and would permit terminally ill individuals over 16, who meet specific residency and mental competency criteria, to request assistance in dying. Swinney, who has previously voted against similar bills in 2010 and 2015, indicated that he will share his views once he has considered the evidence presented by the Health and Sport Committee. Campaigners argue that the legislation could alleviate suffering for terminally ill individuals, while opponents warn it may pressure vulnerable patients into hastening their deaths.