Assisted dying debate needs to be expert led but also needs to be compassionate - The Yorkshire Post says

That is why any change in law on assisted dying should be the subject of a Royal Commission. It would present a holistic picture, taking into account the various issues associated with a law change.

Actor and campaigner Liz Carr makes a very valid point about being “seduced” by words such as compassion and choice in the conversation around the controversial topic.

But in a compassionate society, it is important that the voices of those who are suffering are listened to.

Kim Leadbeater, the Labour MP for Spen Valley, is behind the private member’s bill which would offer choice at the end of life.

She has previously offered reassurance that the proposed legislation “will not undermine calls for improvements to palliative care, nor will it conflict with the rights of people with disabilities to be treated equally and have the respect and support they are absolutely right to campaign for in order to live fulfilling lives”.

This is the central point that needs to be addressed. Should assisted dying be legalised, it cannot be allowed to become cover for poor palliative care provisions. Dame Esther Rantzen, who is terminally ill, has pleaded with the public to write to their MPs to ask for “the right to choose, not to shorten our lives, but to shorten our deaths”.

The voices of those who are suffering like Dame Esther need to be carefully considered as well. That is why there is a need for a conversation on assisted dying.

Assisted dying currently is the preserve of the wealthy, that too needs to be part of the conversation.