Scottish Catholic bishops welcomed the Scottish Parliament’s decision on March 17 to reject the Assisted Dying for Terminally Ill Adults (Scotland) Bill, which would have allowed eligible adults to request assistance from health professionals to end their own lives.
The issue is significant as it addresses how society cares for its most vulnerable members and sets a precedent for future legislation in the United Kingdom. The bill, introduced by parliamentarian Liam McArthur in March 2024, would have made Scotland the first part of the UK to legalize assisted dying for terminally ill adults. The eligibility criteria required individuals to be at least 18 years old, terminally ill, and capable of making an informed decision. A recent amendment had raised the minimum age from 16 to 18.
Bishop John Keenan of Glasgow, president of the country’s bishops’ conference, said in a statement that members of Parliament “can be confident that they have taken the correct and responsible course of action.” He added, “Their vote serves to protect some of Scotland’s most vulnerable individuals from the risk of being pressured into a premature death.” Keenan also stated, “Every human life possesses inherent value. Genuine compassion is not expressed through ending a life, but through accompanying those who suffer and ensuring they receive the medical, emotional, and spiritual support that recognizes their dignity. No life is without worth.”
The Scottish Parliament allowed a free vote on the bill so lawmakers could decide according to their consciences rather than party lines. Advocacy groups opposing assisted dying called the 69-to-57 vote a major victory and suggested it could influence similar debates across the UK. Right to Life described this as “potentially the biggest decision in the history of the Scottish Parliament,” echoing political commentators’ views.
Polling data cited by advocacy organizations indicated widespread public concern about legalizing assisted suicide and its potential impact on vulnerable groups such as victims of domestic abuse or people with eating disorders. Not Dead Yet UK reported that most Scottish adults believe improving access to care for people with disabilities should take priority over introducing assisted suicide legislation.
Looking ahead, attention turns to other life issues in British legislation. On March 18, the House of Lords will vote on an amendment related to abortion laws within the Crime and Policing Bill. If passed, Clause 208 would decriminalize abortion up until birth for any reason if performed by women themselves. Christian Concern announced plans for a demonstration in London opposing this measure.
Bishop Keenan concluded his remarks by thanking members of Parliament who supported human dignity: “Your principled commitment has not gone unnoticed.”
