THE Director of Public Prosecutions s recent guidance on the prosecution of assisted suicide cases may prove to be a judgment of Solomon. Over the last five years or so, it has been almost impossible to convince a jury of the guilt of such alleged offende
THE Director of Public Prosecutions's recent guidance on the prosecution of assisted suicide cases may prove to be a judgment of Solomon.
Over the last five years or so, it has been almost impossible to convince a jury of the guilt of such alleged offenders. It appears that juries have simply refused to convict those who have helped their loved ones to die.
And more recently the Crown Prosecution Service has frequently taken the view that it is 'not in the public interest' to prosecute.
In the interests of protecting the most vulnerable in our society, I am opposed to any attempt to legalise euthanasia in any form. The law must send a clear message that emphasises the intrinsic value of all human life.
However, when it comes to enforcing the law, I believe it is right that sometimes mercy should triumph over judgment in these heartbreaking cases. The DPP's guidance is welcomed, as it sheds much-needed light on when such mercy will be applied.
Councillor ANDREW GILBERT
Eynesbury Ward
Huntingdonshire District Council
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