Medical staff to get opt-out right in assisted dying cases

NHS staff and pharmacists will be allowed to refuse to take part in assisted dying procedures, under an amendment to the plans expected to be tabled this week.

- CAITLIN DOHERTY, AINE FOX

Kim Leadbeater, the MP behind the Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill, will put forward a change meaning that “no person” will have to participate in the process.

As first reported by The Guardian, changes will also be made to employment law so that nobody who refuses to take part can be dismissed or face disciplinary action as a consequence.

The legislation, as it’s currently drafted, means that doctors and other health professionals can refuse to take part. However, a new amendment expected to be tabled this week by Ms Leadbeater is expected to say that “no person is under any duty to participate in the provision of assistance”.

This will mean that pharmacists and any other staff involved in the process will also have the right not to participate.

The Employment Rights Act is expected to be strengthened to protect employees who do not take part, and no reason will need to be given for opting out.