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Mrs Gill Gerhardi |
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12th July
2004 |
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Many thanks for
contacting me to highlight your concerns over the Mental Capacity
Bill. I should like, if I may, to make a few
points on this important issue. |
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The right of
all patients to consent to medical treatment is fundamental,
and has always been safeguarded in law. Part of the intention
of the Mental Capacity Bill is to ensure that the wishes of those
who are mentally incapable of consenting to medical treatment
are respected, by putting in writing how "advance directives"
or "living wills", which are already legal, should
work in practice. I am certain that the Bill will not give legal
sanction to euthanasia. If it does, I shall vote against it. |
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There has also
been concern that the Bill might legalise the withdrawal of nutrition
and fluids. This practice is already legal, but only in certain
exceptional circumstances where food and water constitutes medical
treatment. The ultimate decision on this can only be taken by
a Court on the advice of medical practitioners. I believe that
in the very rare circumstance where all quality of life and hope
is gone, it is the most humane course of action. However, the
final decision to withdraw or continue lifesustaining treatment
resides with a doctor. I do not believe that the Bill will change
this situation but, if it does, I shall vote against it. |
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I shall certainly
scrutinise the Bill carefully and take your views into account.
I assure you that I am resolutely opposed to euthanasia by act
or by omission and I shall vote against any legislation which
attempts to legalise it. |
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If I can be of
any assistance to you in the future please do not hesitate to
let me know. I am always very willing to do whatever I can to
help. |
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Gill's
reply |
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