Dignity in dying

Along with most of rest of the population of this country, I am a firm believer in the proposition that older people at the end of their tether should have the option of calling a halt - that is to say to be able to take a fatal dose of something or other at or near their own home - an option which is becoming increasingly available in other parts of the western world. So I pass on this message from Dignity in Dying, an organisation which campaigns for some form of assisted dying.

'Today the Royal College of Physicians (RCP) announced they'll be surveying their members on their stance to assisted dying. A majority of two thirds for either support or opposition will be needed for the RCP to take either of these positions. If there is not a two-thirds majority for either option, the college will become neutral in order to respect the range of views among doctors.

Other royal colleges and the British Medical Association should now follow the RCP's lead and also commit to a full survey of their own members.

Please help us by sharing this news on social media or forwarding this email to your networks, so as many people as possible know the RCP has taken this positive action.

The RCP takes an important step by surveying their whole membership. The input of experts and doctors will be essential in crafting the best possible assisted dying law for the UK. By ensuring they represent their membership the RCP are making sure they can engage in the assisted dying debate effectively'.

I might add that our MP, Chris Grayling, while courteous and efficient, is firmly against any such thing. Along with most other MPs, who seem to be years behind their constituents in this matter.

Reference 1: https://www.dignityindying.org.uk/.