Purvis writes to Lord Advocate to request clarification on Scottish impact of Lords’ verdict (Paisley Liberal Democrats)

Paisley Liberal Democrats <smcdonald21@ntlworld.com>

Purvis writes to Lord Advocate to request clarification on Scottish impact of Lords’ verdict

July 30, 2009 5:50 PM
Originally published by Scottish Liberal Democrats

In response to the Law Lords unanimous verdict in favour of the Debbie Purdy appeal, Tweeddale, Ettrick and Lauderdale MSP, Jeremy Purvis is writing to the Lord Advocate seeking urgent clarification on the approach in Scotland in prosecuting those that assist in supporting people who make end of life choices.

Jeremy lodged a proposal in the Scottish Parliament in 2005 for a change in the law to allow people coming to the end of a terminal illness the right to choose the circumstances of their death.

Commenting, Jeremy Purvis said:

"Clearly decisions on prosecutions, and indeed the formation of the law in this area, are devolved to Scotland but I am seeking urgent clarification from the Crown Office as to their response to this extremely important ruling. The Lord Advocate and her predecessors have refused to be drawn into this debate but we require immediate clarification in Scotland as to the approach of the prosecution authorities. Nothing less than this is acceptable. The approach to the law in Scotland is as opaque as that in England and Wales and the moral impact of the ruling applies equally north and south of the Border.

I am writing to seek an urgent response from the Lord Advocate as the verdict requires a response in Scotland. The unanimous view is that Mrs Purdy's human rights are being affected, and a clear approach from the prosecution authorities needs to be address here also."