Rev. Alasdair Macleod, Moderator of the Free Church of Scotland, has welcomed the decision of the Scottish Parliament to reject the Assisted Dying for Terminally Ill Adults (Scotland) Bill.
He said: “Along with many others, we are thankful and relieved that the Bill designed to assist people commit suicide has been defeated.
“This decision affirms that every human life is precious and worthy of protection. As Christians we believe that human life is a gift from God, and that our calling as a society is to care for one another, especially in times of weakness, illness, and suffering.
“Throughout this debate many people – including disabled people, healthcare professionals, and faith communities – have raised serious concerns about the risks such legislation would bring. The possibility that vulnerable people would feel pressure to end their lives is something that any compassionate society must take seriously. We are also grateful to the many individuals and organisations who worked tirelessly to highlight these concerns and to defend the dignity of human life.
“This was the third, and hopefully final time, that the Scottish Parliament has voted on this issue. It must now be left, for at least a generation, with our collective focus shifting to what we can safely and compassionately achieve: improving palliative care, supporting families, and strengthening communities so that no one feels that their life has lost its value.
“Jesus Christ shows us how to be people who protect life, comfort the suffering, and walk alongside those who are struggling. Following his example remains our commitment as a Church.”