'Hundreds will use right to die in first months'

NEARLY 800 people could end their lives with assisted dying in the first six months of its introduction, according to Government estimates.

- By Hanna Geissler, Health Editor

The Department of Health said the service could become available in England and Wales in 2029 if Parliament passes the Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill. Based on data from countries that have legalised assisted dying, its impact assessment found that between 273 and 1,311 people would apply in the first six months, with 60% completing the process. This amounts to 164 to 787 patients.