A senior police officer calls for clear guidelines on assisted deaths for terminally ill 16-year-olds in Scotland amid ongoing legislative discussions.
Edinburgh: A senior police officer is asking for clarity on assisted deaths for 16-year-olds in Scotland. This comes as discussions continue about a new Bill.
Concerns were raised that this could attract people to Scotland for assisted dying. The Bill aims to allow terminally ill adults to seek help to die, but it includes 16-year-olds as adults.
However, a similar proposal in the House of Commons only allows those 18 and older. Assistant Chief Constable Steve Johnson pointed out that the UN Convention states a child is anyone under 18.
He emphasized the need for clear guidelines on this issue. If a 16-year-old can choose to end their life, it conflicts with other laws in Scotland.
Johnson also mentioned that this could make Scotland a more appealing place for those seeking assisted dying. Laura Buchan from the Crown Office echoed these concerns about age definitions.
Scottish Health Secretary Neil Gray stated that parts of the Bill may exceed the Scottish Parliament’s powers. He stressed that it’s up to Parliament to decide on the Bill’s principles.
Gray called for a free vote on the matter, noting its complexity. He also pointed out that some provisions might relate to reserved matters like medical regulations.
Liam McArthur, who proposed the Bill, is set to give evidence next week. The discussions continue as the committee reviews the legislation.
