Assisted Dying bill.

 Over the years we have become familiar with terrible stories of many seriously ill people, suffering agonising deaths. Hopefully the Assisted Dying bill published today will elevate the indignity. There are a number of safeguards in the proposed legislation. 1.The person must be 18 and have the mental capacity to make a rational decision. 2.The person is expected to die within the next 6 months. 3.Two independent doctors plus a judge must agree with the decision. 4.The medication must be self administered and without any assistance. 5. Any coersion would be a criminal offence with a punishment of up to 14 years in prison. The bill will come before parliament on Friday 29 November. I hope the bill will eventually become law after its passage through both Houses of Parliament. This has been a long and painful process, in particular for those many patients - who have suffered over many years. I wrote to my MP Laura Trott, suggesting she support the legislation in the House of Commons. I know it’s a - free vote and not subject to being Whipped. Nevertheless, I hope in good conscience she can give it the necessary support.