Assisted dying one step closer on Isle of Man

THE Isle of Man will become the first place in the UK to legalise assisted dying after a Bill seeking greater choice for the terminally ill cleared another crucial stage.

- Hanna Geissler

Campaigners embraced outside Tynwald yesterday after politicians in the House of Keys approved the majority of amendments proposed by the parliament's upper house.

The Bill will now return to the upper house next month, when supporters hope members will accept the final changes and vote to send it for Royal Assent.

If they do, assisted dying could be available to terminally ill Manx residents from 2027.

The move would put pressure on MPs in Westminster to agree a route forward for the introduction of assisted dying in England and Wales to avoid creating postcode lottery.

Sarah Wootton, chief executive of Dignity in Dying, said the latest milestone was "a defining win for common sense and compassion".

She added: "I congratulate parliamentarians for not only listening to the experiences and support from a majority of Manx people, but for their commitment to a detailed and comprehensive legislative process.

"This is a historic moment for the island and I pay special tribute to local people who have led these efforts to make sure no one else has to choose between facing painful deaths or taking matters into their own hands."

Historic

Trevor Moore, board member of My Death, My Decision, said: "The members of the House of Keys are to be applauded for taking this historic step.

"They have engaged positively with the debate, with arguments put forward from all sides in good faith. We hope that Westminster will pay attention to this, and follow in their footsteps." Linda Broomesmith, 66, was among those who joined a small morning rally ahead of the debate.

Campaigners lined the road in front of the parliament building with placards and banners, earning frequent honks of support from passing vehicles.