I am very grateful to constituents and campaigners, both those for and against the proposed legislation who have shared their views on Assisted Dying, often disclosing deeply personal experience and solemnly held beliefs on the topic.
The testimony of those seeking a change to the law has been deeply moving and encouraged me to test my own initial opinions on the matter. I have endeavoured to keep an open and enquiring mind and appreciated hearing from individuals and organisations with different perspectives.
Like other MSPs, my own lived experience, predominantly my current health situation, has also impacted my understanding and feelings on the matter. I have given the issue a lot of thought and consideration over the last few years. My initial concerns about the impact of such legislation on the lives of disabled citizens and the real potential for coercion of vulnerable patients remain.
The conclusion I have reached is that I cannot in good conscience support Assisted Dying legislation and as such, my vote will be cast against the Bill.
Ruth Maguire MSP (SNP) 