Member

That is important, and it is important to insist on this point. When amendments similar to mine were proposed in the House of Commons, they were rebutted with the claim that Clauses 12(2)(c)(iv) and 12(2)(d) already require explanation of the complications, but, as we can see from a precise reading of these clauses, I am afraid they do not. Under the Bill as it stands, therefore, those choosing suicide will not be giving informed consent, since they have not been made aware of the full range of potential complications so consent is not informed. Indeed, the General Medical Council requires that, before patients can give consent, the known risks of harm and the uncertainties attaching to them are explained to them.