Scottish Labour leader not convinced by assisted suicide

Scotland's Labour leader has said he does not "instinctively support" assisted suicide, as Holyrood approaches a debate on new legislation.

Speaking to The Scotsman newspaper, Anas Sarwar said he has been "really struck" by comments against the practice by his colleague Pam Duncan-Glancy, who is disabled.

He added: "I've always been really struck by her saying we need to ensure people are given the assistance to be able to live given so many circumstances people face, particularly those with a disability.

"So I'm yet to be persuaded on the legislation. I don't instinctively support the legislation. I think, again, safeguarding is really, really important on that, but I'm willing to listen to the debate".

On the issue of conscience votes, he said: "I imagine there will be disagreeing views, so we'll have that conversation as that bill comes closer to being brought to the floor of Parliament."

Scottish Liberal Democrat MSP Liam McArthur lodged a member's proposal for assisted suicide legislation last year and achieved sufficient support to bring a bill forward.

He is expected to lodge legislation at Holyrood in the coming months. The bill is likely to go to the Health Committee for Stage 1 deliberations.

The committee will take evidence and produce a report. This will then be debated by all MSPs, who will vote to progress or halt the bill.

CARE will be keeping Scottish supporters updated on the plans and urging MSPs not to legalise assisted suicide, which is profoundly dangerous and unethical.

You can find out why CARE and many other groups oppose assisted suicide and euthanasia by visiting our cause page: CARE for Assisted Suicide | CARE