PLANS to include under-18s in controversial assisted dying laws could be scrapped.
The change is understood to be on the table in a bid to win round sceptics like John Swinney.
2
2
The First Minister was said to be “wrestling” with Liberal Democrat MSP Liam McArthur’s proposals to give euthanasia rights to terminally-ill Scots aged 16 and 17.
Now kids’ hospice charity CHAS has also raised “serious concerns” about the Bill — claiming it ignores scientific evidence questioning older teens’ decision-making abilities.
It wants the minimum age increased and “additional tailored safeguards” for under-25s.
And Lib Dem sources conceded the age at which the law kicks in could be raised to 18 if it would win more backers.
A party insider said: “If such a change would bring a chunk of MSPs over to backing the bill, it would be doable.”
Labour MP Kim Leadbeater has tabled a similar Bill at Westminster which would additionally require a judge to sign off assisted deaths.
And the Lib Dem source told how Mr McArthur could “live with” a similar safeguard here — if it would lead to success in a likely vote in February.
It comes after TV’s Dame Esther, 84, who has terminal lung cancer, prompted debate by joining the Swiss assisted dying clinic Dignitas.
Mr McArthur said: “I remain open to discussing amendments on this if that is the will of parliament.”
