Summary
A bill to legalize assisted dying for terminally ill, mentally capable adults in Scotland has passed its first vote in the Scottish Parliament with a vote of 70 to 56. The bill needs to pass through two more stages before becoming law, and it has sparked debate about the potential impacts on vulnerable people and safeguards needed.
Key Facts
- The proposed law would allow terminally ill adults who are mentally competent to seek medical aid to end their lives.
- The first vote in the Scottish Parliament passed by 70 votes to 56.
- Two more stages of parliamentary review are needed before it can become law.
- This is the third time such a bill has been proposed; previous attempts in 2010 did not pass.
- The Scottish government remains neutral; individual politicians expressed varied opinions.
- The bill was introduced by Liberal Democrat MSP Liam McArthur.
- Supporters include leaders from the Conservative party, Lib Dems, and the Scottish Greens.
- Critics are concerned about the potential risks for disabled and vulnerable people.
