320: ‘Death on demand’ | Danny Kruger on assisted dying
Nov 28, 2024
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Danny Kruger, Conservative MP for East Wiltshire, passionately argues against assisted dying, engaging in a thought-provoking dialogue with Fraser Myers. He warns that legalizing a 'right to die' would lead to NHS providing 'death on demand,' revealing the potential for mission creep as seen in Canada. The discussion emphasizes ethical concerns and the risks posed to vulnerable groups, calling for critical scrutiny of proposed safeguards. Kruger implores MPs to reject the impending bill to protect individuals from unintended consequences.
Danny Kruger warns that legalizing assisted dying could lead to coerced decisions from vulnerable populations, fundamentally altering patient-provider relationships.
The experience of countries like Canada demonstrates the dangers of 'mission creep' in assisted dying laws, where safeguards may fail to protect the vulnerable.
Deep dives
Concerns over Assisted Dying Legislation
The proposed assisted dying bill raises significant concerns regarding its implications for vulnerable populations within society. One key objection is the potential for 'mission creep,' where the scope of the law could expand beyond its original intent, thereby normalizing a culture that views certain lives as less valuable. The introduction of such a legal framework could foster coercive pressures on individuals who may feel like a burden to their families or society, particularly affecting the disabled, elderly, and those struggling with mental health. The fear is that by creating a category of individuals deemed suitable for assisted death, the bill could fundamentally alter the relationship between patients and healthcare providers.
International Examples Highlight Risks
The experiences of countries where assisted dying has been legalized, such as Canada, illustrate the risks associated with similar legislation. Despite the original intentions to restrict the law to extreme cases, Canada has seen significant expansions due to legal challenges and societal changes, resulting in vulnerable individuals being offered assisted death without having sought it. Instances of those with disabilities or mental health issues being channeled towards death rather than receiving adequate support emphasize the slippery slope nature of such laws. These examples underpin the argument that safeguards against abuse may not hold up in practice and can easily be undermined, raising red flags for proponents of cautious legislative approaches.
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There is no ‘safe’ way to legalise assisted dying, warns Conservative MP Danny Kruger on spiked today ahead of Friday’s House of Commons vote. Talking to Fraser Myers, he argues that a ‘right to die’ would force the NHS to offer ‘death on demand’. For all the talk of the ‘safeguards’ in the proposed bill, the experience of countries like Canada shows that mission creep is inevitable. There, assisted dying is routinely offered to those who don’t ask for it, and as a substitute for proper care. He urges his fellow MPs to reject this dangerous bill.