Story perspectives

Scottish Parliament Raises Assisted Dying Age to 18

11/11/2025

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Summary

Story summary

The Scottish Parliament has increased the minimum age for assisted dying from 16 to 18 in the Assisted Dying for Terminally Ill Adults (Scotland) Bill.
Conservative MSP Sandesh Gulhane proposed the age change, stating that 18 is suitable for significant medical decisions.
An amendment to raise the age to 25, proposed by Labour MSP Claire Baker, was rejected by the health committee.
The bill, introduced by Liberal Democrat MSP Liam McArthur, requires further scrutiny before a final vote.
Eligible applicants must be terminally ill, mentally competent, and residents of Scotland for at least 12 months.

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Story summary

The Scottish Parliament has increased the minimum age for assisted dying from 16 to 18 in the Assisted Dying for Terminally Ill Adults (Scotland) Bill.
Conservative MSP Sandesh Gulhane proposed the age change, stating that 18 is suitable for significant medical decisions.
An amendment to raise the age to 25, proposed by Labour MSP Claire Baker, was rejected by the health committee.
The bill, introduced by Liberal Democrat MSP Liam McArthur, requires further scrutiny before a final vote.
Eligible applicants must be terminally ill, mentally competent, and residents of Scotland for at least 12 months.