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Chris Whitty warns against implementing assisted dying service at speed

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Chris Whitty issues warning over assisted dying

England’s Chief Medical Officer, Professor Sir Chris Whitty, has issued a warning on assisted dying services, emphasizing the importance of “simplicity” in safeguards.

Testifying before a parliamentary committee scrutinizing the proposed assisted dying Bill, Whitty stressed the need for a “safe, fair, and secure service” rather than adherence to a strict timeline.

While acknowledging two years as a “reasonable starting point,” he cautioned against rushing the process.

Whitty emphasized his neutrality on the Bill’s principles, focusing on technical aspects. He highlighted the need for a straightforward process, stating, “the best safeguards are simple safeguards,” to avoid burdening terminally ill individuals with bureaucracy.

Whitty also addressed concerns about defining terminal illness.

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