Assisted dying docs 'to perform coercion tests'

DOCTORS will be asked to carry out mental capacity and coercion assessments for every patient who requests assisted dying, under proposed changes to the bill.

- Hanna Geissler

Kim Leadbeater, the Labour MP who introduced the legislation, has tabled amendments to ensure the process is the "best, strongest and safest in the world".

Medics who are willing to provide the service would also undergo specific training about assessing capacity and spotting coercion.

Ms Leadbeater said the amendments were drafted after discussions with ministers, parliamentary drafters and officials at both the Department of Health and Social Care and Ministry of Justice. She added: "All this work reflects the will of the House at second reading when it voted by a majority of 55 to support the principle of the bill and to take it to the next stage of rigorous scrutiny by the committee, and that's what is now happening.

"It is extremely important to get the details of the legislation right and enhance it where necessary, particularly with regard to safeguards.