Home alternative to a one-way ticket to Zurich

sir – As a former president of the World Federation of Right to Die Societies (2002 to 2004), I have naturally been very interested in the recent letters (October 12) about “assisted dying”.

Between 2005 and 2016, I accompanied four determined individuals from Britain to Switzerland for a medically assisted rational suicide. As a retired GP, I was very pleased to be asked to help each of them on their final journey.

Medically assisted rational suicide for competent, severely suffering adults has been possible in Switzerland for several decades, and is fully supported by the great majority of Swiss doctors and people.

Why cannot we, in the United Kingdom, have the same compassionate opportunity? Personally, as I have been a member of Dignitas, in Zurich, for 16 years, it is reassuring to know that I have this option for myself (which might be rather soon as I am now 90).

Michael Irwin

Cranleigh, Surrey

sir – If assisted suicide becomes legal, everyone in their lifetime would be presented with the option of whether to kill themselves. “Have you thought about assisted suicide?”

This includes those who are vulnerable and distraught. “Is your life worth living?”

It includes many who have misconceptions and are unaware of alternatives. “Isn’t dying painful?”

It includes many who are afraid, and it includes some who are coerced. “Am I just in the way?”

This legislation will create a burden on many, which has the risk of becoming a duty.

It is a flattering lie that our choices are independent of our culture and relationships. Laws aren’t just rules – they send social messages and dictate conduct.

What is worse: not to kill someone who wants to die, or inadvertently to kill someone at their request who may have subsequently wanted to live?

Dr Matthew Doré

Palliative Care Consultant Belfast