The MP for Suffolk Coastal, Dr Therese Coffey, has presented a Ten Minute Rule Bill in parliament that would guarantee access to food and water for those who are terminally ill.
She said:
"Decisions taken to remove nutrition and hydration are not easy.
“However end of life palliative care is about allowing people to die as painlessly as possible, withdrawing hydration and nutrition in some cases, without the family knowing does not do this.
“Death comes to us all and without being too morbid, we have to acknowledge it happens and actually think a little bit about how we want it to happen.
“I am strongly opposed to euthanasia and assisted suicide. However, that doesn't mean that I think someone has to be constantly resuscitated to prolong the life of someone who may have just days to live.
“However, I am vehemently opposed to the removal of water or food as I think it is terribly cruel for someone to starve to death or die through lack of water.”
The Bill has been given a second reading for 25th November but is unlikely to be made law because of limited parliamentary time.
However, the Bill will serve as a platform for discussing end of life issues and palliative care.
Responding to the news, Andrea Williams said:
“Well done to Therese Coffey for tabling this important Ten Minute Rule Bill.
“It puts palliative care on the agenda and will provide an opportunity for parliament to discuss this most important of subjects.
“We must protect the most vulnerable members of society and care compassionately for those who are at the end of their lives.”
Sources
Christian Concern