What is the UK law on Euthanasia?

Question

I know that it is in fact illegal to take part in some form of Euthanasia in the UK and it is legal is some other European countries such as Switzerland. But what is the actual law? Is there any circumstances in can be performed? Or must it be done abroad?

Having a debate on the subject for a college assignment and I just would like to understand the proper law guidelines. Thanks in advance

Answer 1

Best Answer - Chosen by Asker

First you need to get your terminology correct.

Euthanasia - a mercy killing to alleviate suffering. Does not need the consent of the subject.

Assisted suicide - exactly what it says on the tin. Suicide is the personal choice of the subject, and assisting is to help them do it, perhaps because they do not have the physical capability to do it themselves (could include something like handing someone an overdose to take themselves).

Euthanasia and assisted suicide are both absolutely illegal in England and Wales. Anyone performing active euthanasia could be guilty of murder, and assisting a suicide can be manslaughter (to procure a suicide can be murder).

But look at euthanasia more closely. Perhaps if you don't do something to actively end the subject's life, then it could be legal. This could be something simple like the withdrawal of medical treatment at a point where treatment has become futile.

Asker's Rating:

Asker's Comment:

Thanks very much, although I've heard about how controversial the topic is, I've never really fully understood it, but thanks to you I now have a bit more of an insight to it. Thanks

Answer 2

As you said, it the Uk it is illegal. You can still be charged with murder or manslaughter, even if it is done abroad. There is currently a national debate on just this topic, with a great number of people wanting to change the law so that it is legal, but of course the problem is who decides when euthanasia is justified. There is one interesting 'get out' which has been considdered for use, when the prosecution service decides that it is 'not in the public interest to pursue this matter'. Logical, but is it legal?

Answer 3

I think it is illegal under all circumstances. Even if it were the case that the person were to request euthanasia and give their consent it would be illegal.

This might be a nice place to start:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/health/827030…