A Labor MP whose father took his own life says current rules on assisted dying have robbed them of their time together and the law needs to be changed.
In an emotional interview, Paul Blomfield told Sky News’ Sophy Ridge program on Sunday that he would like to see a “change in the law that allows people to choose”.
Under current law, terminally ill people are not helped in taking their own lives, and family and friends who help them – or even know about their plans – can be prosecuted.
Mr Blomfield said the assisted dying ban made life “miserable” for both those with terminal illnesses and their loved ones.
The Sheffield Central MP has shared the story of his elderly father Harry, who died by suicide aged 87 after being diagnosed with inoperable lung cancer.
He explained how he received a phone call more than eight years ago informing that Harry had taken his own life.
Mr Blomfield, 69, said that if the law were different they could discuss what was happening with Harry together.
In tears, he said: “He could have talked to us. We could have made plans together. He might have lived longer.
“I think he decided to go early because he wanted to act while he still could.”
Labor MP Paul Blomfield
‘He had a good life’
Mr. Blomfield tells of his father’s life, growing up in poverty and becoming an RAF pilot.
“He’s had a good life and he’s enjoying it,” he said.
“He was a wonderful father. He was a very private person but even so I think he would want me to talk about his death because I know he has always believed in giving people choices. .
“In a sense, that should have given me an indication of what he could do after being diagnosed with the terminal stage but I really didn’t take that into account.”
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Mr Blomfield said that Harry remained “positive” after being diagnosed with terminal lung cancer, and so the news of his death was a “shock”.
The MP said the diagnosis itself was a “shock for him, and it was for us”.
Currently, under the Suicide Act 1961, anyone found guilty of assisting a person to take their own life can be jailed for up to 14 years.
‘Law that pushes people to take very desperate measures’
Mr Blomfield said: “The law prevents people from having choices at the end of their lives and it forces people to take very desperate measures, just like my father.”
He added that a lot of discussion about support death should turn to what the law “did” to man – and the “wretchedness it caused”.
He hopes a change in the law will one day, and says a “reasonable and balanced approach” would allow assisted dying in cases where someone is six months alive with a diagnosis. end stage, confirmed by doctors.
A YouGov study last year found that almost three-quarters of Britons (73%) think the law should be changed to allow doctors to assist in the suicide of a terminally ill person.
However, support for such a move in parliament has lagged behind public attitudes.
A Department of Justice spokesman said: “Our sympathies remain with the families and loved ones affected by these deeply distressing incidents.
“Any change to legislation in such a sensitive and important area is for individual MPs to consider rather than a decision for the government.”
:: Anyone feeling emotional distress or wanting to commit suicide can call the Samaritans for help on 116 123 or email [email protected] in the UK. In the United States, call the Samaritans branch in your area or 1 (800) 273-TALK.
