David Hunter case "shows 'unsafe' assisted dying laws lead to 'tragedy"

31 July 2023 , 19:37

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David Hunter after being freed (Image: Humphrey Nemar)

Campaigners say the David and Janice Hunter case shows why assisted dying laws should be changed in Britain.

Dignity in Dying called the current situation “unsafe, unfair and unequal”. Its deputy chief executive Davina Hehir said: “Under the blanket ban on assisted dying there will undoubtedly be more tragic cases of dying people suffering unbearably as they die.

“Some [will be] forced to take matters into their own hands, often relying on compassionate but illegal assistance from loved ones.” DiD wants assisted dying to be available to terminally ill, mentally competent adults. It is legal in places such as Australia and Switzerland. Proposals are being looked at in Scotland, Jersey and the Isle of Man.

David and Janice Hunter (Albanpix.com)

And the Commons’ Health and Social Care Select Committee will this year report on its inquiry into assisted dying. Opponents of a law change think it may lead to people ending their lives out of fear of becoming a burden. They want better palliative care services instead.

Christian campaign group CARE said: “Our national conversation needs to focus on how we improve care, not keep returning to assisted suicide.”

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