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MSP with Parkinson's seeks law change on assisted suicide

A veteran MSP who is suffering from Parkinson's disease has unveiled proposals to allow assisted suicide in Scotland.

Margo MacDonald is to table a Private Member's Bill that will allow patients with incurable disease end their lives, without family members or medics who help them having to fear prosecution.

Suicide is not illegal in Scotland, but anyone who aids someone who takes their own life may be charged with murder or culpable homicide.

The independent Lothians MSP said she will launch a wide-ranging consultation on the issue at the end of November, with a view to bringing forward her 'Choices at the End of Life' Bill by next Easter.

Previous attempts to reform the law at Holyrood and Westminster have failed, while churches have branded the idea immoral and doctors have expressed ethical concerns.

A spokesman for the Catholic Church in Scotland said the church remains opposed to euthanasia but will "participate fully in the consultation".

Full story at the Daily Telegraph.