Wednesday March 18th 2026
Colin Beattie MSP for Midlothian North and Musselburgh
This View has been written by Colin Beattie MSP, Midlothian North & Musselburgh
I voted in favour of the Assisted Dying (Scotland) Bill at the final stage.
in the lead-up to the vote, I received an unprecedented volume of correspondence for constituents, alongside representations from organisations and individuals holding a wide range of views from strongly supportive, firmly opposed, and undecided. I have listened carefully, read every email and letter, and reflected on the deeply personal experiences and sincerely held beliefs they expressed. To the many hundreds who wrote, met with me, or took part in public engagement: thank you. Your contributions were invaluable in informing my understanding of this profoundly sensitive issue.
This is not a matter on which all perspectives can be reconciled. For many, assisted dying raises serious concerns about the value we place on life and the potential risks to vulnerable individuals. These are arguments that deserve respect and careful consideration. We should also note, as highlighted by Liam McArthur during the debate, choices at the end pf life already exist within our current system. Individuals can choose to refuse life-sustaining treatment, to accept Do Not Resuscitate orders, or to stop eating and drinking. Clinicians routinely make decisions about pain relief that, while intended to ease suffering, may also have the effect of shortening life. Some people, where they have the means, travel abroad to places such as Switzerland to access assisted dying.
Equally, I have heard from those who believe strongly in personal autonomy at the end of life, particularly for those facing terminal diagnosis. Many shared moving accounts of witnessing the suffering of loved ones and expressed a desire for dignity, compassion, and control in their final days.
Throughout this process, the debate has been thoughtful and respectful, with rigorous democratic scrutiny. Contributions from all sides have ensured the gravity of the decision was never lost.
Having weighed these arguments, and in light of the amendments made, I have concluded that I could not, in good conscience, deny terminally ill individuals the option of choosing to end their lives in a dignified way at at time of their choosing.
I also wish to place on record my appreciation to Liam McArthur MSP, and his team, for the careful and considered manner in which he has guided the Bill through Parliament.
While views differ on the outcome, I believe we can agree on the importance of supporting people at the end of life with compassion, dignity, and high-quality care. I remain committed to constructive dialogue and to working with colleagues and communities to ensure that the lessons from this debate inform future discussions on end-of-life care.
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