Campaigners react to delays to Assisted Dying Bill

UK Government 'unable' to recommend legislation for Royal Assent over safeguarding concerns

Assisted Dying is, by its very nature, a highly emotive issue and one that it seems impossible to sit on the fence of.

But here on the Isle of Man our politicians voted in favour of a private member's bill laid out by Ramsey MHK Alex Allinson.

It went all the way through the House of Keys, all the way through the Legislative Council, and was just waiting for the UK's Ministry of Justice to give the OK for the Bill to get Royal Assent.

However that hasn't happened.

The UK's Deputy Prime Minister, David Lammy, said they needed clarity on the arrangements for monitoring assisted deaths, safeguards against coercion and ensuring individuals have capacity to make decisions.

As a result, it's the UK Government's view that these matters must be addressed in order for the bill to comply with the European Convention on Human Rights.

While the Ministry is unable to recommend the bill for Royal Assent at this time it did say this shouldn't be interpreted as disallowing Royal Assent, but that it reflects the need to ensure the legislation contains the necessary protections.

So how has that landed with those who've been campaigning on either side of the debate?

Graham McAll is a retired GP and founder of the group Manx Duty of Care which he describes as an 'informal grouping' of healthcare professionals who are all opposed to assisted dying:

So for many of those against assisted dying the decision from the UK Government came with a renewed sense of hope.

But what about for those who have tirelessly campaigned in favour of it?

Sue Biggerstaff is one of those - her husband Simon died in 2022:

Dr Allinson has already confirmed that he's instructing drafters to make the suggested changes to the legislation.

He's also due to make a statement in Tynwald when the court sits today (21 April).

The chief minister will then answer an urgent question on the topic straight after.

But ultimately, we don't know how much this will delay the legislation becoming law and Assisted Dying being made available on the Isle of Man.

You can listen to all the interviews reacting to this week's news below: