The Bill, originally brought forward by the late Margo McDonald MSP and now promoted by Patrick Harvie MSP, seeks to create a framework in which those with a life-threatening or life-limiting condition can obtain help in ending their lives, and that those providing that assistance can be protected from prosecution.
Mr Stevenson said:
“Coming from a medical family, I am well aware of the emotional and physical trauma generally associated with the death of a relative or friend.
“The role of doctors and other health professionals has always been to support life where possible and support the dying with compassion.”
“The role of doctors and other health professionals has always been to support life where possible and support the dying with compassion.”
Speaking of the standards to which doctors should adhere, Stevenson added:
“Above all as the Hippocratic Oath has stated, doctors can 'neither give a deadly drug to anyone if asked for it, nor make a suggestion to this effect'.
“For me, if doctors become actively involved in ending life, their relationship with the living is diminished and on that basis I cannot support this measure.”
“For me, if doctors become actively involved in ending life, their relationship with the living is diminished and on that basis I cannot support this measure.”