Guernsey rejects bid to legalise euthanasia

PROPOSALS to legalise assisted dying were rejected by Guernsey’s parliament yesterday.

The proposal called for the development of recommendations to permit terminally ill adults, who are of sound mind and with six months or fewer to live, the means to end their life at the time of their choice.

However, following three days of debate, it was rejected by 24 votes to 14. If passed, Guernsey would have become the first place in the British Isles to allow assisted dying.

It follows similar votes in the UK parliament, with MPs most recently voting against changing the law on assisted dying by 330 votes to 118 in 2015.

Campaigners criticised the move, saying such legislation is needed ‘more now than at any other time’ due to medical advances that mean people can be kept alive for longer. Sarah Wootton, head of UK group Dignity in Dying, said: ‘Many in Guernsey and beyond will be disappointed … particularly those who have seen the suffering caused by the current law.’

But Dr Peter Saunders, of Care Not Killing, said: ‘We welcome this strong rejection of this dangerous proposition.’