November 25, 2009
Legalise assisted suicide, Kirk minister says
by Melanie Reid
The Times of London
A retired Church of Scotland minister is calling for assisted suicide to be legalised so that patients could end their lives "in an ethical and merciful manner".
Contradicting the Church's official stance on the issue, the Rev Dr John Cameron praised the work of Dignitas, the Swiss-based assisted suicide group, and accused Britain of "exporting" its ethical dilemma overseas.
Writing in the Kirk's official journal, he said Dignitas provided a much needed service for individuals who want to "die as they have lived". He also said NHS claims that palliative care was available for all in Britain's hospitals were an "outrageous untruth".
The Church of Scotland, however, opposes Independent MSP Margo MacDonald's controversial End of Life Choices Bill that seeks to legalise assisted suicide in Scotland.
Read the complete story (Some news sites require registration)
