The Bolton and District Pensioners Association have cast their votes on the Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill. The majority of members voted in support of the proposed law. However, concerns about safeguarding were raised, even by supporters of the bill.
The members were asked to vote yes, no, or undecided, with the option to give a reason. Chris Chilton from Astley Bridge voted yes, saying: "Strong safeguards are vitally important, an individual in a competent state of mind should have the right to make informed decisions about whether to continue living or not. "The role of the state is to ensure that decision is made freely and without coercion, not to impose a moral judgement regardless of the individual's wishes.
" On the other side of the debate, Cathy Eastham from Halliwell voted no. She said: "I have changed my mind again. "I agree with choice in principle, but in a world where the elderly, those with mental illness and disabilities are routinely abused in institutions, and where hospices and social care are starved of resources, the introduction of assisted dying is dangerous.
"What area is riper for cuts than palliative care?" Jayne Clarke from Astley Bridge remained undecided, stating: "In principle I agree, but have seen worrying facts and figures from other countries showing that some went ahead because they felt a burden and some, although not a high percentage, because they couldn’t afford the medical treatment." The group's secretary, Bernie Gallagher,.
