The proposed amendment to the assisted dying bill suggests that eligibility checks would transition from the High Court to a panel of experts, including psychiatrists and social workers. This change, proposed by Labour MP Kim Leadbeater, aims to alleviate concerns about the court's capacity to handle each case. While Leadbeater insists this adjustment maintains judicial scrutiny under a 'judge plus' model, opponents warn that it might dilute necessary safeguards for terminally ill patients considering assisted dying. A new Voluntary Assisted Dying Commission will oversee these applications and report on their status annually.
The proposed law would replace High Court oversight with a panel of experts to alleviate judicial backlog, though some critics fear this may weaken safeguards.
Kim Leadbeater stated the changes will make the system 'even more robust' despite concerns that removing a judge's role might compromise protections for vulnerable individuals.
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