EMOTIONS HIGH AS HOLYROOD MSPs BACK ASSISTED DYING BILL

Vote passes 70 to 56 on day of powerful debate over right to end own life

- By Douglas Dickie

MSPs have backed legislation to pave the way for assisted dying in Scotland at the first stage in a landmark vote.

Liberal Democrat Liam McArthur brought the Assisted Dying for Terminally Ill Adults (Scotland) Bill to the parliament to "allow more choice, compassion and dignity at the end of life".

Politicians from across the chamber voted 70-56 in favour of the Bill but it still faces a difficult journey before becoming law.

Mr McArthur hailed to vote as "a landmark moment for Scotland". He added: "This Bill has been a long time coming but, at long last, it can offer that compassionate choice for the small number of terminally ill Scots who need it." Campaigners from both sides of the debate had earlier gathered outside Holyrood to voice their arguments.

Several MSPs spoke passionately against the Bill becoming law, including Scottish Tory MSP Stephen Kerr who warned colleagues not to "cross the Rubicon".

He said: "Let's build a country where no one feels their only option is death.

"Once the line is crossed, we cannot go back. I heard reference to crossing the Rubicon, I think that's correct.

"This isn't compassion, it's a risk too great, too permanent, too dangerous, so I say to my the basis of faith or whatever colleagues, don't risk it.

"Reject this proposal, protect the vulnerable, protect the principle that every life is worth living." It is the third time assisted dying has been brought before MSPs in the 26 years since the Scottish Parliament was reconvened.

Almost five hours of debate took place before the Bill went to a vote.