Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill
Debate between Sarah Russell and Simon Opher(6 days, 10 hours ago)
Commons ChamberRead Full debate Read Hansard Text Read Debate Ministerial Extracts
Dr Opher
I am sorry, I cannot give way. I am just going to go through these points very quickly.
That is why the BMA is against new clause 1. There is no duty for doctors to raise the issue, but there should not be any ban on them doing so. As I have pointed out, the so-called gagging clause was introduced in Victoria as part of the legislation. However, after five years that has now been removed by an independent review, because it caused confusion and it harmed patient care. I urge colleagues to vote against new clause 1. Let us respect the patient’s right to information, not restrict it. Let us ensure that no patient is left suffering simply because they did not know what to ask, and that no doctor is punished for trying to help.
Sarah Russell
I thank my hon. Friend for giving way. On that point, I have particular concerns—
Madam Deputy Speaker (Caroline Nokes)
Order. May I just clarify whether the hon. Gentleman was giving way?
Sarah Russell
Thank you, Madam Deputy Speaker. On that point, does my hon. Friend agree with my concerns about new clause 2, which, although genuinely meant and intended, is in danger of being read, together with new clause 1, to indicate that it should not be discussed with children at all, even if they raised it first, because of the difference between the wording of the two clauses?