Legalising assisted suicide in Scotland could undermine the value of human life and pose serious risks to vulnerable individuals, a committee has been warned.

Christian charity CARE for Scotland expressed its opposition to the Assisted Dying for Terminally Ill Adults (Scotland) Bill, which is currently under review by Holyrood’s Health Committee. The bill, introduced by Lib Dem MSP Liam McArthur, would allow people aged 16 and over with a terminal illness to access lethal drugs from doctors.

CARE for Scotland’s Policy Officer, Michael Veitch, argued that the bill is morally impermissible, stating: “Our guiding principle is that we affirm the inherent value of every human life. This principle is undermined by legislation that permits the terminally ill to end their lives. Physician-assisted suicide and euthanasia are not private acts; they involve a person bringing about the death of another. The societal implications of such a law change have serious consequences."

Veitch also warned that endorsing assisted suicide could harm the doctor-patient relationship and lead to undue pressure on vulnerable individuals to choose death over life. “Assisted dying should not be considered ‘treatment,’” he said. “Doctors should not have to discuss it with patients as an alternative to palliative care.”

The submission concluded by urging caution, stating, “This Bill is literally a matter of life and death and is inadequate as drafted given the lack of a strong overseeing role for the Scottish Parliament.”

CARE for Scotland is a social policy charity that brings Christian insight to the policies and laws that impact society.