“The controversy of mercy killing is unresolved. It is capable of being either an act of compassion or that of unconscionable self interest. The law recognises no difference between these motivations. Despite challenges from Diane Pretty and Debbie Purdy, mercy killing remains an offence in the UK. Assisting a person to commit suicide is an offence under the Suicide Act 1961. Killing a person not capable of committing suicide even at their request is murder or manslaughter. It is no defence to say that the best interests of the victim were served. While the DPP have been forced to publicise their policy upon which factors will be considered when a prosecution is contemplated that goes only to the public interest in any prosecution. The law recognises no offence or defence, full or partial, of mercy killing.”
CrimeLine, 29th April 2013
Source: www.crimeline.info
