A Bill to allow adults who are terminally ill, subject to safeguards and protections, to request and be provided with assistance to end their own life; and for connected purposes.
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Eligibility to be provided with lawful assistance to voluntarily end own life
Source HL Bill 112 Explanatory Notes
44 Clause 1 sets out the circumstances in which assistance can be provided to a person to end their own life.
45 The person must:
46 A person is considered ordinarily resident if they are living in England and Wales: lawfully; voluntarily; and for settled purposes as part of the regular order of their life for the time being, whether for a long or short duration
47 The assistance must be provided in accordance with clauses 8 to 30. Those clauses, amongst other things, require steps to be taken to ensure that the person-
48 Subsection (3) requires that the steps taken under clauses 8 (first declaration), 10 (first doctor's assessment), 11 (second doctor's assessment) and 19 (second declaration) must be taken when the terminally ill person is in England or Wales, and that the steps taken under clauses 10 and 11 - first and second doctor's assessment - must be made by persons in England or Wales.
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Source HL Bill 112 Explanatory Notes
49 Subsection (1) defines when a person is "terminally ill" for the purposes of the Bill. The person must have an inevitably progressive illness or disease that cannot be reversed by treatment. The person must also be expected to die within 6 months.
50 Subsection (2) provides that a person who would not otherwise meet the requirements of subsection (1) shall not be considered to meet them solely as a result of not eating or drinking.
51 Subsection (3) sets out that treatment which only relieves the symptoms of the inevitably progressive illness or disease temporarily is not to be regarded as treatment which can reverse that illness or disease.
52 Subsection (4) provides that a person is not considered to be "terminally ill" only because they have a disability or mental disorder or both. A person would need to meet the requirements in subsection (1) to qualify for assistance.
Source HL Bill 112 Explanatory Notes
53 Clause 3 provides that the test of whether a person has capacity to make a decision to end their own life is to be determined in accordance with the Mental Capacity Act 2005. Sections 1 and 2 of that Act establish the principles and criteria for assessing a person's capacity to make decisions.
54 Section 2 of that Act provides that a person lacks capacity in relation to a particular matter if the person is unable to make a decision for themselves in relation to that matter because of an impairment of, or a disturbance in the functioning of, the mind or brain. Section 3 of that Act defines what it means to lack capacity. Section 3 provides that a person lacks capacity if they are unable to:
Voluntary Assisted Dying Commissioner
Source HL Bill 112 Explanatory Notes
55 Clause 4 provides for there to be a Voluntary Assisted Dying Commissioner (the Commissioner), who would oversee the assisted dying process in England and Wales.
56 The Commissioner would be appointed by the Prime Minister (subsection (2)) and must hold or have held office as a judge of the Supreme Court, the Court of Appeal, or the High Court (subsection (3)).
57 Subsection (4) lists the principal functions of the Commissioner: receiving documents made under the Bill; making appointments to a list of persons eligible to sit on Assisted Dying Review Panels (schedule 2); referring cases to such panels (clause 16); monitoring the operation of the Bill and reporting annually on it (set out in clause 47).
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Preliminary discussions
Source HL Bill 112 Explanatory Notes
58 Subsection (1) makes clear that no doctor is under a duty to raise the subject of the provision of assistance under the Bill with a person. But that does not prevent a doctor exercising their professional judgement to discuss the matter with a person (see subsection (2)).
59 Subsection (3) provides that, where a person in England or Wales indicates to a doctor that they wish to seek assistance end their own life in accordance with the Bill, the doctor may (but is not required to) discuss the matter with the patient.
60 Subsection (4) provides for adjustments for language and literacy barriers, including the use of interpreters.
61 If a preliminary discussion takes place, subsection (5) provides that the registered medical practitioner must explain to and discuss with the person:
a. the person's diagnosis and prognosis;
b. any available treatment and its likely effect; and
C. all appropriate palliative, hospice or other care, including symptom management, psychological support, and offer of a referral to a specialist for further discussion.
62 A preliminary discussion cannot be said to have taken place for the purposes of this Bill unless it has included an explanation of and discussion about the matters mentioned in (a) to (c) above.
63 If the doctor is unwilling or unable to conduct the discussion, subsection (6) requires them to ensure that the person who has requested it is directed to where they can find information and have the preliminary discussion.
Source HL Bill 112 Explanatory Notes
64 Under this clause no health professional is able to raise the subject of provision of assistance to end one's own life with a person under 18.
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Source HL Bill 112 Explanatory Notes
65 Clause 7 applies where a registered medical practitioner conducts a preliminary discussion with a person (subsection 1).
66 If the registered medical practitioner who conducts the preliminary discussion is a practitioner at the person's GP practice, subsection (2) requires them to record the preliminary discussion in the person's medical records as soon as practicable.
67 Where a registered medical practitioner who conducts the preliminary discussion is not a practitioner at the person's GP practice, subsection (3) requires them to provide a written record of the preliminary discussion to a registered medical practitioner with the person's GP practice as soon as practicable. The practitioner at the person's GP practice must then include the record of the preliminary discussion it in the person's medical records as soon as practicable.
Procedure, safeguards and protections
Source HL Bill 112 Explanatory Notes
68 Clauses 8 to 30 set out steps that must be taken, and safeguards and protections that operate, when a person decides to seek assistance to end their own life in accordance with the Bill. In summary, assistance can only be provided if:
69 A person who wishes to be provided with assistance to end their own life must make a declaration under this clause (a "first declaration")
70 Subsection (2) requires that a first declaration must be:
a. in the form set out in regulations made by the Secretary of State;
b. signed and dated by the person making the declaration (where the person is unable to sign, clause 21 enables the declaration to be signed by a proxy); and
C. witnessed by the coordinating doctor and another person (clause 52 sets out factors that disqualify a person from acting as a witness or proxy).
71 Subsection (3) requires the coordinating doctor to provide a copy of the first declaration to the Commissioner as soon as reasonably practicable.
72 Subsection (4) requires regulations made under subsection (2)(a) to provide that the first declaration contains particular information, including the full name, address, NHS number and contact details of the GP practice for the person seeking assistance. Those regulations must also provide the first declaration contains further declarations by the person, including a declaration that the person meets the initial conditions for eligibility.
73 Subsection (5) sets out that the “initial conditions for eligibility" are that the person making the declaration: is aged 18 or over; is ordinarily resident in England and Wales and has been so for at least 12 months; and is registered with a general medical practice in England or Wales.
74 Subsection (6) gives a definition for "the coordinating doctor" in the Bill, as a registered medical practitioner who meets the eligibility criteria listed in paragraphs (a) to (d). This includes that the practitioner meets the requirements specified in regulations under subsection (7); who has indicated to the person making the declaration that they are able and willing to carry out the functions of the coordinating doctor under the Bill; who is not a relative of the person; and is not a beneficiary under a will of the person or who may otherwise benefit (financially or in any other material way) from the death of the person.
75 Subsection (7) places a duty on the Secretary of State to make regulations which make provision about the training, qualifications and experience that a registered medical practitioner must have in order to act as a coordinating doctor.
76 Subsection (8) requires that regulations (made under subsection (7)) provide that the practitioner must have had training about assessing capacity; assessing whether a person has been coerced or pressured by any other person; providing reasonable adjustments and safeguards for autistic people and people with a learning disability; and domestic abuse.
77 Under subsection (9), regulations may provide that the required training, qualifications or experience be determined by a person that is specified in the regulations. A specified person could include a regulatory body which sets professional training.
78 Training in respect of domestic abuse, including coercive control and financial abuse, is mandatory under subsection (10)
79 Subsection (11) sets out that a person may not witness a first declaration if they are disqualified under clause 52 from being a witness
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Source HL Bill 112 Explanatory Notes
80 This clause requires a person making a first declaration under clause 8 to provide both the coordinating doctor and the independent witness with two forms of proof of identity.
81 Subsection (3) enables the Secretary of State to make provision about acceptable forms of proof of identity in regulations.
82 Subsections (4) and (5) allow the coordinating doctor to witness the first declaration only if:
a. they have been provided with two forms proof of identity by the person seeking assistance;
b. a preliminary discussion with the person has been conducted by the coordinating doctor or another registered medical practitioner;
C. and the coordinating doctor has made or seen a written record of the preliminary discussion.
Source HL Bill 112 Explanatory Notes
83 Where a first declaration is made by a person, the coordinating doctor who witnessed the first declaration must carry out an assessment of the person. The purpose of the assessment is to establish whether the person:
84 After carrying out the first assessment, subsection (3) requires the coordinating doctor to make a report about the first assessment and give a copy of that report to: the person who was assessed; if the coordinating doctor is not a practitioner with the person's GP practice, a registered medical practitioner with that practice; and any other person that Secretary of State specifies in regulations.
85 If the coordinating doctor is satisfied that all the matters in subsection (2) have been met), they must refer the person to an independent doctor to conduct the second assessment. The independent doctor must be a registered medical practitioner who is able and willing to carry out the second assessment, and who meets all of the requirements set out in clause 11(8).
86 Subsection (4) places a duty on the Secretary of State to make provision through regulations about the content and form of the coordinating doctor's report.
87 Subsection (5) requires the regulations to provide that the coordinating doctor's report must include particular information, such as whether the coordinating doctor is satisfied that all the matters in subsection (2) have been met and the reasoning for their decision. The coordinating doctor must also confirm that a record of the preliminary discussion and the making of a first declaration have been recorded in the person's medical records. They must also confirm that the first declaration has not been cancelled. The report must be signed and dated by the coordinating doctor.
88 Subsections (6) and (7) enable a second referral to be made if the independent doctor dies or through illness is unable or unwilling to carry out their functions. Where a new referral is made, the new independent doctor is required to carry out the same functions as the independent doctor to whom the first referral was made. These functions are set out in clauses 11 (second doctor's assessment) to 13 (second opinion) and 15 (replacing the coordinating doctor or the independent doctor where unable or unwilling to continue to act).
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Source HL Bill 112 Explanatory Notes
89 This clause applies where the coordinating doctor refers the person under clause 10(3)(c) for a second assessment by the independent doctor (subsection 1). The purpose of the second assessment of the person carried out by the independent doctor is to establish whether the person:
90 The second assessment must take place after “the first period for reflection". This period begins with the day the coordinating doctor makes their report under clause 10 and lasts for 7 days.
91 Subsection (4) sets out that the independent doctor must carry out the second assessment independently of the coordinating doctor.
92 After carrying out the second assessment, subsection (5) requires the independent doctor to make a report about the assessment. They give a copy to the person who was assessed; the coordinating doctor; if neither the independent doctor nor coordinating doctor is a practitioner with the person's GP practice, a registered medical practitioner with that practice; and any other person that the Secretary of State may specify in regulations.
93 Subsection (6) places a duty on the Secretary of State to make provision through regulations about the content and form of the report.
94 Subsection (7) requires the regulations to provide that the independent doctor's report must include particular information, such as whether the independent doctor is satisfied of all the matters in subsection (2) and an explanation of their decision. Additionally, the report should contain a statement indicating whether the independent doctor is satisfied:
a. that a record of the preliminary discussion has been included in the person's medical records;
b. that the person signed the first declaration;
C. that the making of the first declaration has been recorded in the person's medical records; and
d. that the first declaration has not been cancelled.
95 The report should also be signed and dated by the independent doctor.
96 A registered medical practitioner can only act as the independent doctor if they meet the requirements set out in subsection (8) In particular, they must meet the requirements (about the training, qualifications and experience) specified by the Secretary of State in regulations under subsection (9). To ensure independence, the practitioner must not have provided the person with treatment or care in relation to their terminal illness and must not be in the same medical practice or clinical team as the coordinating doctor. The independent doctor must also not know or believe that they are a beneficiary under the person's will or may otherwise benefit from that person's death.
97 Subsection (9) places a duty on the Secretary of State to make provision through regulations about the training, qualifications and experience that a registered medical practitioner must have to carry out the functions of an independent doctor.
98 Subsection (10) requires these regulations provide that the practitioner must have had training about mental capacity, coercion or pressure by another person, and domestic abuse.
99 Under subsection (11), the regulations may provide that the required training, qualifications or experience is to be determined by a person that is specified in the regulations. A specified person could include a regulatory body which sets professional training.
100 Subsection (12) sets out that the reference to “terminal illness” in subsection (8)(b) means the illness or disease mentioned in section 2(1)(a).
101 Subsection (13) requires that the regulations required under subsection (9) specify that training in respect of domestic abuse, including coercive control and financial abuse is mandatory.
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Source HL Bill 112 Explanatory Notes
102 Clause 12 makes provision about the assessment by the coordinating doctor under clause 10 and the assessment by the independent doctor under clause 11 (subsection 1).
103 In particular, subsection (2) sets out things each of the doctors carrying out an assessment under the Act must do. These include a requirement to:
a. examine the person and their relevant medical records;
b. make enquiries of any health and social care professionals who are providing or have recently provided care to the person as the assessing doctor considers appropriate;
c. explain to and discuss with the person their diagnosis and prognosis; any treatment available and the likely effects; any available palliative, hospice or other care, including symptom management, psychological support, and offer of a referral to a specialist for further discussion.
d. discuss with the person what their wishes are in the event of complications;
e. inform the person of the further steps that must be taken before assistance to end their own life in accordance with the act can be provided; and that the person may decide at any time not to take those steps (and how to cancel the first declaration and any further steps)
f. advise the person to inform a registered medical practitioner with the person's GP practice that the person is requesting assistance to end their own life;
g. if appropriate, to advise the person to consider discussing the request with their next of kin and any other persons they are close to.
104 Subsections (3) and (4) require the assessing doctor to consult a health or social care professional with relevant qualifications or experience, if they consider there is a need to do so. Where such a consultation takes place, the assessing doctor must give a written record of the consultation to the other assessing doctor.
105 Under subsection (5) it is provided that an assessing doctor must make provision of adjustment for language and literacy barriers
106 Subsection (6) sets out that if the doctor carrying out the assessment has a doubt as to whether the person being assessed is terminally ill, the doctor must obtain an opinion from a specialist in the illness, disease or condition in question. If the doctor carrying out the assessment has doubt as to the capacity of the person being assessed, they must refer the person for assessment by a psychiatrist or other suitably qualified person. The assessing doctor must take account of any opinion provided by the above mentioned medical practitioners.
107 Subsections (7) and (8) require that any opinion provided to one assessing doctor under subsection (6) is shared with the other assessing doctor and that if the independent doctor is required to obtain an opinion under subsection (6)(a) then that duty may either be discharged by an opinion sought by the coordinating doctor or by their own referral.
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Source HL Bill 112 Explanatory Notes
108 Clause 13 applies where the independent doctor has carried out the second assessment and made a report stating that they are not satisfied that all the matters in section 11(2) have been met (subsection 1).
109 Subsections (2) and (3) permit the coordinating doctor to refer the person, if they request, to another registered medical professional who meets the requirements for the independent doctor for a further assessment. This independent doctor must be provided with the report from the initial independent doctor and if they disagree with that doctor's assessment then must produce their own report both of which must be made available to any subsequent decision makers.
110 Subsection (4) provides that where a referral is made to a doctor under this section they shall be treated as the independent doctor and the provisions of clauses 11, 12 and 15 also apply to this assessment.
111 Subsection (5) provides that only one referral for a second opinion can be made under this clause. This is subject to clause 13(6) and 15(6)(a)(ii). which applies in circumstances where the independent doctor is unwilling or unable to continue to act.
112 Subsection (6) permits a further referral in circumstances where, after the first referral was made under subsection (2), the independent doctor dies or through illness is unable or unwilling to act as the independent doctor, and so has not made a report.
Source HL Bill 112 Explanatory Notes
113 The coordinating doctor who witnesses the first declaration under clause 8 has a variety of functions under the Bill. This clause enables the Secretary of State to make regulations providing for cases where the original coordinating doctor becomes unable or unwilling to continue to carry out these functions part way through the process. This will ensure continuity of care for the person who made the first declaration.
114 Equivalent provision is not needed for the independent doctor, as their functions are confined to the second assessment under clause 11. If they become unable or unwilling to continue to act before the second assessment is completed, a new referral could be made to an independent doctor for a second assessment.
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Source HL Bill 112 Explanatory Notes
115 Clause 15 applies where after a first declaration has been witnessed by a coordinating doctor that doctor is unable or unwilling to continue with their functions after they have witnessed the first declaration, or where an independent doctor is unable or unwilling to carry out their functions after a referral is made under clause 10(3)(c) or clause 13(4) but before a report under clause 11 has been made (subsection 1). In this clause they are referred to as “the outgoing doctor".
116 Subsection (2) requires the outgoing doctor to give written notice of their inability or unwillingness to continue to carry out their functions to the person seeking assistance; the Commissioner; and, where the outgoing doctor is the independent doctor, to the coordinating doctor. This must be done as soon as practicable.
117 Subsection (3) provides that once the outgoing doctor gives written notice, their functions under the Bill cease, except for their duties under subsections (8) or (9).
118 Subsections (4) and (5) enable the Secretary of State to make regulations relating to the appointment (with agreement of the person seeking assistance) of a replacement coordinating doctor who meets the requirements of clause 8(6) and who is able and willing to carry out the functions of the coordinating doctor. The regulations may make provision to ensure continuity of care for the person seeking assistance despite the change in the coordinating doctor.
119 Subsection (6) provides that where an independent doctor gives written notice that they are unable or unwilling to continue with their functions, a further referral may be made, and the registered medical practitioner to whom that referral is made becomes the independent doctor and replaces the outgoing doctor.
120 Subsections (7), (8) and (9) provide that where the coordinating doctor gives notice that they are unable or unwilling to continue with their functions, or a coordinating doctor receives such notice from an independent doctor, it is the original coordinating doctor's responsibility to take steps to ensure that the giving of notice is recorded in the person's medical records.
121 If the coordinating doctor is already a registered medical practitioner at the person's GP practice, they must record that notice in the person's medical records as soon as practicable. If the coordinating doctor is not a practitioner with the person's GP practice, they must notify a practitioner with that practice that notice has been given. The practitioner who is notified must then record the notice in the person's medical records as soon as practicable.
to continue to act
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Source HL Bill 112 Explanatory Notes
122 Clause 16 sets out the process for the referral of a case from the Commissioner to an Assisted Dying Review Panel (panel). As per subsection (1) and (2), where the Commissioner receives a first declaration made by a person seeking assistance and the reports of the coordinating and independent doctors confirming their eligibility (under clauses 10 and 11), the Commissioner must, as soon as reasonably practicable, convene a panel from the list of eligible members, and refer the person's case to that panel.
123 Subsection (3) provides that where the Commissioner is notified that a first declaration has been cancelled, they must not refer the case to a panel, or must notify the panel of the cancellation if the case has already been referred.
124 Subsection (4) signposts to schedule 2 for further provision about the panels.
Source HL Bill 112 Explanatory Notes
125 Clause 17 sets out the process for the consideration of a case by an Assisted Dying Review Panel (subsection 1).
126 Subsection 2 requires the panel to determine whether it is satisfied of the same matters assessed by the coordinating and independent doctor in clauses 10 and 11. The panel must also determine:
a. whether the requirements on the coordinating and independent doctor to determine eligibility under clauses 8 to 12 have been met in regard to the first declaration, the first and second assessments, and the report on these assessments; and
b. that before making the first declaration, but when the person was aged 18 or over, a registered medical practitioner conducted a preliminary discussion with the person.
127 Subsection 3 allows a panel to adopt a procedure as it considers appropriate for the case (subject to the following and Schedule 2).
128 Subsection (4) sets out that the panel must hear from and may question the coordinating doctor or the independent doctor, and the person seeking assistance (unless exceptional circumstances apply (as outlined in subsection (6)).
129 The panel may also hear from and may question the proxy of the person seeking assistance, and any other person, including those with relevant knowledge or experience relating to the person. This could include family members or other individuals interested in the welfare of the person, as well as other experts.
130 When hearing from the person seeking assistance, the doctors, and the person's proxy, this must be in person or by live video or audio link. Where the panel consider it appropriate for medical reasons, subsection (5) allows for the use of pre-recorded audio or video material.
131 Subsections (7) and (8) provide that only where a panel is satisfied (with the agreement from all three panel members as laid out in schedule 2), that the requirements of the Bill have been met, it must grant a certificate of eligibility. It must also notify the person to whom the referral relates, the coordinating doctor, the Commissioner, and any other person specified in regulations.
132 If notified that a first declaration has been cancelled, subsection (9) requires that the panel must cease to act and must not grant a certificate.
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Source HL Bill 112 Explanatory Notes
133 Under clause 18, where a panel refuses to grant a certificate of eligibility, the person seeking assistance may apply to the Commissioner for their case to be reconsidered. Such an application can only be made once (subsections (1) and (2)).
134 If the Commissioner is satisfied that any of the following grounds apply, subsections (3) and (4) requires that they, as soon as is reasonably practicable, refer the case to a second panel for a fresh determination:
a. error of law;
b. Irrationality; and
C. procedural unfairness.
135 As detailed in subsections (5) and (6), the Commissioner must provide written reasons for their decision as to whether the application meets the criteria to be referred to a second panel. They must also notify the person who made the application, the coordinating doctor, and any person specified in regulations of their decision.
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Source HL Bill 112 Explanatory Notes
136 Under subsection (1), where a person who wishes to be provided with assistance to end their own life has been granted a certificate of eligibility by a panel, and the second period of reflection has come to an end, the person must then make a further declaration under this clause ("the second declaration"). But the second declaration cannot be made until "the second period for reflection" has ended.
137 The second period for reflection begins on the day the certificate of eligibility is granted and lasts for 14 days, or, where the coordinating doctor reasonably believes that the person's death is likely to occur within one month, begins on the day the certificate was granted and lasts for 48 hours (subsection (2)).
138 Subsection (3) requires that the second declaration must be in the form set out in regulations made by the Secretary of State. It must be signed and dated by the person making the declaration and both the coordinating doctor and the witness must see the declaration being signed.
139 Subsection (4) requires the regulations to provide that the second declaration must contain particular information, including the person's full name, address and NHS number. It must also contain further declarations from the person seeking assistance, confirming that they have made a first declaration and have not cancelled it; they understand that they must make a second declaration; they are making the second declaration voluntarily and have not been coerced and pressured by any other person into making it; and that they understand that they may cancel the second declaration at any time.
140 As per subsection (5), the coordinating doctor may only witness the second declaration if the coordinating doctor is satisfied that the person making the declaration:
141 Under subsection (5) the coordinating doctor must make a statement to the effect that they are satisfied of the above if they are.
142 Subsection (7) requires that the statement must be in the form set out by the Secretary of State via regulations. It must be signed and dated by the coordinating doctor and witnessed by the same person who witnessed the second declaration under subsection 3(c).
143 Subsection (8) requires the regulations under subsection (7)(a) to provide that a statement under subsection (6) contain particular information, including the person's full name, address and NHS number. It must also contain the following declarations by the coordinating doctor (in addition to a declaration that they are satisfied the criteria in clause (5) are met):
a. a declaration that the coordinating doctor is satisfied that a certificate of eligibility has been granted;
b. a declaration that the second declaration was made after the end of the second period of reflection;
C. if the second declaration was made before the end of the period of 14 days, a declaration that they believe that the person's death is likely to occur before the end of the period of one month (beginning with the day the certificate of eligibility was granted); and
d. a declaration that neither the first declaration nor the second declaration has been cancelled.
144 Subsection (9) prevents a person from witnessing a declaration under subsection (3)(c)(ii) if they are disqualified from being a witness under clause 52.
145 Under subsection (10), where the coordinating doctor has witnessed a second declaration or has made or refused to make a statement under subsection (6), they must notify the Commissioner and provide a copy of the second declaration or any other statement under subsection (6).
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Source HL Bill 112 Explanatory Notes
146 This clause enables a person who has made a first or second declaration to cancel the declaration by giving notice to the coordinating doctor or to a doctor at their GP's practice. Notice may be given orally or in writing, or the cancellation indicated by a means of communication known to be used by the person concerned.
147 Subsection (2) provides that where the coordinating doctor receives a notice or an indication that the person seeking assistance wishes to cancel their declaration, they must notify the Commissioner of the cancellation as soon as practicable.
148 Where notice or an indication that the person wishes to cancel their declaration is given to a registered medical practitioner, subsection (3) requires that practitioner to notify the coordinating doctor and the Commissioner of the cancellation as soon as practicable.
149 A cancellation takes effect as soon as the notice or indication is given, and no further steps are then taken in reliance on the declaration.
Source HL Bill 112 Explanatory Notes
150 This clause makes provision for cases where the person intending to make a first declaration or a second declaration is unable to sign their own name.
151 Subsection (1) provides that they can authorise another person to sign the declaration on their behalf.
152 Subsection (2) sets out that a declaration signed by a person’s proxy in that person’s presence and in accordance with subsection (3) has the same effect as if signed by the person themselves.
153 Subsection (3) requires that the proxy add their full name and address, the capacity in which they qualify as a proxy, a statement that they have signed as a proxy, and the reason why the person was unable to sign their own name.
154 Under subsection (4) a proxy may not sign a declaration
a. unless they are satisfied that the person understands the nature and effect of the declaration,
b. if disqualified from being a proxy under section 52,
c. if it is a second declaration and the proxy signed the first declaration as a witness.
155 Under subsection (5), “proxy” is given the definition of a person who has known the person making the declaration personally for at least two years, or someone who meets the description specified in regulations made by Secretary of State.
156 Subsection (6) sets out that the provisions for the signing of declarations by proxies also include their cancellation.
157 Clause 52 provides that a proxy:
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Source HL Bill 112 Explanatory Notes
158 This clause sets out the appointment of an independent advocate whose role is to provide support and advocacy to qualifying persons to enable them to effectively understand and engage with the Act.
159 Subsection (1) requires the Secretary of State to make provision for the appointment of persons as independent advocates through regulations.
160 Subsection (2) sets out what may, in particular, be included in regulations including who may appoint independent advocates, the training of those advocates, payments made for or in relation to carrying out the role, and obligations for persons performing functions included in the Act to ensure the presence of an independent advocate for qualifying persons.
161 Subsection (3) provides a description of the role of the independent advocate as providing support and advocacy for a qualifying person to enable them to effectively engage with and understand the Act.
162 Under subsection (4) are the qualifications for a person to have an independent advocate. A person is a "qualifying person" if they
a. have a learning disability, a mental disorder under section 1 of the Mental Health Act 1983, or autism
b. may experience substantial difficulty in understanding the process as set out under the Act and information relating to it or in communicating their views, wishes, or feelings
C. meet the qualifications as set out by the Secretary of State in regulations.
163 Subsection (5) requires that the regulations be made through the affirmative procedure.
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Information in medical records
Source HL Bill 112 Explanatory Notes
164 Clause 23 provides a list of “recordable events", which are events which must be recorded in a person's medical records if they occur. These events are listed in subsection (1) and include where:
a. a first declaration is made;
b. a report about a first or second assessment is made under clause 10 or 11 respectively;
C. a certificate of eligibility has been granted;
d. a panel has refused to grant a certificate of eligibility;
e. a second declaration is made by a person;
f. and a statement is made under clause 19(6) or the coordinating doctor refuses to make such a statement.
165 Subsection (2) makes clear that "recordable event" means those events mentioned in subsection (1).
166 Where a coordinating doctor is a registered medical practitioner with the person's GP practice, subsection (3) requires them to record the occurrence of a recordable event in the person's medical records.
167 Where the coordinating doctor is not a registered medical practitioner with the person's GP practice, subsection requires them to notify a registered medical practitioner with that practice of the occurrence of the recordable event. The practitioner who has been notified must then record the occurrence of the recordable event in the person's medical records as soon as practicable.
168 Subsection (5) requires that a record made under subsection (3) or (4) include the original declaration, report or statement.
Source HL Bill 112 Explanatory Notes
169 This clause provides for a cancellation of a first or second declaration to be recorded in the person's medical records.
170 Subsections (1) to (3) set out that if a notice or indication of a cancellation of a first or second declaration is given to a doctor at the person's GP practice then they must record it in the person's medical records as soon as practicable. If the doctor to whom the cancellation is given is not with the person's GP practice then they must notify a doctor who is and they must enter it into the persons medical records.
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Provision of assistance to end life
Source HL Bill 112 Explanatory Notes
171 This clause applies where a certificate of eligibility has been granted, the second period for reflection (see clause 19 (2)) has ended, the person has made a second declaration (which has not been cancelled) and the coordinating doctor has made the statement under clause 19(6). It governs the provision of assistance in the form of an approved substance (see clause 27), with which the person may end their own life.
172 If requirements under subsection (1) have been met, subsection (2) permits the coordinating doctor to provide that person with an approved substance with which they can end their own life.
173 Subsection (3) provides that the approved substance must be provided directly, and in person, by the coordinating doctor.
174 When providing an approved substance, subsection (4) requires the coordinating doctor to explain to the person that they do not have to proceed with an assisted death and may still cancel their declaration.
175 Subsection (5) provides that, at the time the approved substance is provided, the coordinating doctor must be satisfied that the person:
176 Subsection (6) permits the coordinating doctor to be accompanied by other persons, including health professionals as the coordinating doctor thinks necessary.
177 Subsection (7) permits an approved substance to be provided to the person to whom assistance is being provided through a device to help with self-administration of the substance. The device must be provided directly, and in person, by the co-ordinating doctor.
178 Subsection (8) permits the coordinating doctor to prepare the approved substance for self-administration by the person, and to assist that person to ingest or self-administer the substance.
179 Subsections (9) makes clear that the decision to self-administer the approved substance, and the final act of doing so, must be taken by the person who has been given the substance.
180 Subsection (10) prohibits a coordinating doctor from administering an approved substance to another person with the intention of causing that person's death.
181 Subsection (11) provides that the coordinating doctor must remain with the person until either: the person has self-administered the substance and has either died or the procedure has failed; or the person has decided not to self-administer the approved substance.
182 Subsection (12) provides that the coordinating doctor conducting functions under subsection (11) does not need to be in the same room as the person who has been given assistance.
183 If the person informs or indicates to the coordinating doctor that they do not want to self-administer the approved substance, subsection (13) requires the coordinating doctor to remove the approved substance immediately from that person.
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Source HL Bill 112 Explanatory Notes
184 Subsection (1) provides that the coordinating doctor may authorise another named registered medical practitioner to exercise the coordinating doctor's functions under clause 25 in connection with the provision of assistance to a person. The authorisation must be in writing.
185 Subsection (2) sets out that an authorisation can only be made with the consultation and the consent, in writing, of the person who wishes to be provided with assistance. The Secretary of State can also set out in regulations the training, qualification and experience which the practitioner would require before they could be authorised under subsection (1).
186 Subsection (3) enables regulations made under subsection (2)(b) to provide that the required training, qualifications, and experience of an authorised registered medical practitioner is to be determined by a person specified in the regulations. A specified person could include a regulatory body which sets professional training.
187 Subsection (4) provides that the provisions under section 25 apply to the doctor authorised under subsection (1) as if they were the coordinating doctor.
188 Subsection (5) provides that where an authorised registered medical practitioner is not satisfied that all the matters mentioned in clause 25(5) have been met, they must notify the coordinating doctor immediately.
189 Subsection (6) disqualifies someone from providing written consent as required under subsection (2)(a) as a proxy if they have acted as a witness to the person's first or second declarations.
190 Under subsection (7) it is specified that regulations under subsection (2)(b) must include that training in respect of domestic abuse, including coercive control and financial abuse is mandatory.
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Source HL Bill 112 Explanatory Notes
191 Subsection (1) requires the Secretary of State to make regulations specifying drugs or other substances for the purposes of the Bill.
192 Subsection (2) provides that in the Bill "approved substance" means a substance which is specified in regulations under subsection (1).
193 Subsection (3) signposts to clause 37, which contains powers to make provision about approved substances and devices for use in connection with the self-administration of approved substances.
Source HL Bill 112 Explanatory Notes
194 Where a person has been provided with assistance to end their own life and the person has died as a result, subsections (1), (2) and (3) require the coordinating doctor to make a 'final statement' which must be in the form set out in regulations by the Secretary of State and signed and dated by the coordinating doctor.
195 Subsection (4) requires the coordinating doctor to give a copy of the final statement to the Commissioner as soon as practicable.
196 Subsection (5) requires regulations under subsection (3)(a) to provide that a final statement contains certain information, including the person's full name, date of birth, sex, ethnicity, last permanent address, and whether the person had a disability (other than a disability consisting of the illness or disease which caused the person to be terminally ill). This information could be potentially included by the Commissioner under duties laid out on clause 49.
197 Under subsections (6), (7) and (8) the making of the statement must be recorded in the person's medical records, and the original statement included as part of that record.
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Source HL Bill 112 Explanatory Notes
198 As per subsection (1), clause 29 applies where a person is not provided with assistance to end their own life (clause 25) because the coordinating doctor is not satisfied that all the matters mentioned in clause 25(5) have been met.
199 In such circumstances, subsection (2) requires the coordinating doctor to make a report setting out why they are not satisfied.
200 Subsection (3) enables the Secretary of State to make provision through regulations about the content or form of the coordinating doctor's report.
201 Under subsection (4), the coordinating doctor is required to provide a copy of this report to the person denied assistance; if the coordinating doctor is not a practitioner with the person's GP's practice, a registered medical practitioner with that practice; and the Commissioner.
satisfied of all relevant matters
Source HL Bill 112 Explanatory Notes
202 This clause ensures that, where a person decides not to take an approved substance provided under clause 25 or the procedure fails for any reason, appropriate records are made in the person's medical record.
203 Subsection (2) requires that the coordinating doctor must notify the Commissioner, as soon as practicable, if a person decides not to take an approved substance or the procedure fails.
204 Subsection (3) and (4) require that, if the coordinating doctor is a practitioner in the person's GP practice, then they must record that a person has been provided with assistance to end their own life in their medical records as soon as practicable. If the coordinating doctor is outside of the person's GP practice then they must inform a doctor within it as soon as practicable who must enter the record into the person's medical records.
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Protections for health professionals and others
Source HL Bill 112 Explanatory Notes
205 Subsection (1) provides that no person is required to participate in the provision of assistance under the Bill.
206 Subsection (2) makes it clear that no registered medical practitioner is under a duty to become a coordinating doctor or independent doctor.
207 Subsection (3) provides that no registered medical practitioner, apart from the coordinating doctor or the independent doctor, is under any duty to perform any function in the Bill other than the giving of notifications and the recording of matters in medical records (as laid out in subsection (7)).
208 Subsection (4) provides that no health professional or social care professional is required to assist an assessing doctor who seeks their view under clause 12(3)b (requirement for assessing doctor to consult professional with relevant qualifications or experience).
209 Under subsection (5), registered pharmacists and registered pharmacy technicians are not required to participate in the supply of an approved substance for use in accordance with clause 25 (provision of assistance).
210 Subsection (6) provides that no one is obligated to act as a witness or as a proxy under the Bill.
211 Subsection (7) lists certain activities that cannot be opted out of and must be complied with. These relate to the giving of notifications under the Bill or the recording of matters in a person's medical records; keeping records or to provide information; and a professional responding to an assessing doctor about the health or social care they are providing, or have recently provided, to a person seeking an assisted death.
212 Subsection (8) amends the Employment Rights Act 1996 to protect workers from being subjected to detriment from their employer in the provision of assistance under the Bill or for exercising their right to refuse to do so.
213 Subsection (9) defines a “duty” in section 31 to include requirements arising from any contract, statute or otherwise. Subsection (9) also defines a "registered pharmacist" and "registered pharmacy technician" as having the same definition as in the Pharmacy Order 2010 (S.1. 2010/231).
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Source HL Bill 112 Explanatory Notes
214 Subsection (1) provides that a person is not guilty of an offence by virtue of:
215 Subsection (2) provides that subsection (1) does not limit the circumstances in which a court can otherwise find a person who has assisted another to end their life has not committed an offence.
216 Additionally, subsection (3) amends the Suicide Act 1961 to insert a new section 2AA.
217 Section 2AA(1) provides that the following acts will not amount to an offence under section 2 of that Act (criminal liability for complicity in another person's suicide):
a. providing assistance to a person in accordance with the Bill;
b. performing any other function under and in accordance with the Bill; or
C. assisting a person seeking to end their own life in accordance with the Bill, in connection with the doing of anything under the Bill.
218 The offence under section 2 of the Suicide Act 1961 will continue to apply to other cases where a person encourages or assists the suicide or attempted suicide of another person. The new section 2AA inserted by clause 29(3) provides a defence to a charge under section 2 of the Suicide Act 1961 where the person proves that they:
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Source HL Bill 112 Explanatory Notes
219 Under subsection (1), providing assistance to a person to end their own life; performing any other function under the Bill; and assisting a person seeking to end their own life does not by its very nature give rise to any civil liability.
220 Subsection (2) makes clear that acts done dishonestly or not in good faith or that gives rise to a liability in tort from a breach of duty of care, such as clinically negligent healthcare, are not excused from civil liability.
221 Subsection (3) sets out that subsection (1) does not limit the circumstances in which a court can otherwise find a person not subject to civil liability.
Offences
Source HL Bill 112 Explanatory Notes
222 This clause creates two new criminal offences.
223 Firstly, subsection (1) provides that a person commits an offence if, by dishonesty, coercion or pressure, they induce another person to make a first or second declaration under the Bill, or induce them not to cancel such a declaration. The maximum penalty for this offence is 14 years imprisonment (subsection (3)).
224 Secondly, subsection (2) provides that a person commits an offence if, by dishonesty, coercion or pressure, they induce another person to self-administer an approved substance provided in accordance with the Bill. The maximum penalty for this offence is life imprisonment (subsection (4)).
225 Proceedings for an offence under this clause may be brought only by or with the consent of the Director of Public Prosecutions as per subsection (5).
Source HL Bill 112 Explanatory Notes
226 This clause creates four new criminal offences relating to documentation in connection with the provision of assistance under the Bill.
227 Subsection (1)(a) makes it an offence to make or knowingly use a false instrument which purports to be a first or second declaration or a certificate of eligibility.
228 Subsection (1)(b) makes it an offence to intentionally or recklessly conceal or destroy a first or second declaration made by another person.
229 Subsection (2) makes it an offence to knowingly or recklessly provide, in relation to a person who has made a first declaration, a medical or other professional opinion which is in respect of a relevant matter and is false or misleading in a way that is significant.
230 Subsection (3) makes clear that the offence under subsection (2) relates only to an opinion about a matter relating to a function under the Bill (rather than, for example, a separate medical issue that the person seeking assistance under the Bill may happen to have).
231 Subsection (4) makes it an offence for a medical practitioner to fail to comply with an obligation under clause 20(2) or (3), which relate to the notification of a cancellation of declaration, or an obligation under clause 24, which relates to the recording of such a cancellation.
232 Under subsection (5) a person who commits an offence under this section is liable to imprisonment for a term not exceeding the general limit un a magistrate's court or a fine or both is on a summary conviction. On conviction on indictment they are liable to imprisonment for a term not exceeding five years, or a fine, or both.
233 Proceedings for an offence under this clause may be brought only by or with the consent of the Director of Public Prosecutions, as per subsection (6).
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Source HL Bill 112 Explanatory Notes
234 This clause creates three new criminal offences relating to documentation, in connection with the provision of assistance under the Bill.
235 Subsection (1) creates offences where a person acts with an intention to facilitate the provision of assistance to another person under the Bill to end their own life and does one of the following things:
236 Subsection (2) makes clear that reference in subsection (1) to assistance under the Bill also includes assistance purporting to be under the Bill.
237 Subsection (3) creates a maximum penalty of 14 years' imprisonment for an offence under this clause.
238 Proceedings for an offence under this clause may be brought only by or with the consent of the Director of Public Prosecutions, as per subsection (4).
assistance
Regulatory regime for approved substances
Source HL Bill 112 Explanatory Notes
239 Subsection (1) and (2) require that the Secretary of State makes regulations about approved substances. The regulations must include provisions about:
a. the supply of approved substances;
b. the transportation, storage, handling and disposal of approved substances; and
C. record keeping relating to approved substances.
240 Subsection (3) enables provision to be made through regulations about:
a. the manufacture, importation, preparation or assembly of approved substances;
b. the monitoring of matters relating to approved substances; and
C. requiring specified persons, in specified cases, to give information to the Secretary of State.
241 Subsection (4) allows regulations to make provision about approved substances that is similar to or corresponds with any provision of the Human Medicines Regulations 2012, with or without modifications.
242 Subsection (5) enables the Secretary of State to make regulations providing for devices used for the self-administration of approved substances.
243 As per subsection (6), regulations must be made about enforcement relating to approved substances (such as imposing civil penalties).
244 Subsection (7) that regulations under this clause may make any provision that could be made by Act of Parliament.
245 Subsection (8) defines 'device' as including information in electronic form for use in connection with device.
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Investigation of deaths etc
Source HL Bill 112 Explanatory Notes
246 Subsection (1) requires that a death resulting from the self-administration of an approved substance, provided in accordance with the Bill, is not to be treated as “unnatural” for the purposes of the duty to investigate deaths under Chapter 1 of the Coroners and Justice Act 2009. Therefore, such a death, when occurring under the lawful framework established by the Bill, does not automatically trigger a coroner's duty to investigate under section 1(2)(a) of the 2009 Act (which applies where a death is suspected to have been violent or unnatural). This does not prevent anyone from referring a death to the coroner where they have concerns that the death has not occurred in line with the provisions of the Bill. Deaths which are not investigated by a coroner are instead scrutinised by a medical examiner.
247 Subsection (2) amends section 20 of the 2009 Act to enable the Secretary of State to make regulations concerning the certification of deaths that arise from assistance provided under the Bill. The regulations may replicate or adapt existing provisions relating to medical certificates of cause of death, and may include additional measures deemed appropriate by the Secretary of State. The regulations must require that where it appears, to the best of the knowledge and belief of the certifying individual, that the cause of death was the self-administration of an approved substance under the Bill, the certificate must record the cause of death as "assisted death" and include details of the person's terminal illness or disease under the terms of the Bill.
248 Subsection (3) amends Schedule 1 to the 2009 Act, which deals with the suspension of coroner investigations where criminal proceedings for a “homicide offence” are likely or have been brought. It expands the definition of a “homicide offence” for these purposes to include offences under clauses 32 (criminal liability for providing assistance etc), 33 (civil liability for providing assistance etc), or 34 (dishonesty, coercion or pressure) of this Bill.
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Codes and guidance
Source HL Bill 112 Explanatory Notes
249 Subsection (1) requires the Secretary of State to issue codes of practice in relation to various matters relating to the operation of the Bill, including:
250 Subsection (2) enables the Secretary of State to also issue one or more codes of practice in connection with any other matters relating to the operation of the Bill which are not mentioned in subsection (1).
251 Subsection (3) requires the Secretary of State to consult such persons as the Secretary of State considers appropriate before issuing any code under this section.
252 Subsection (4) provides that codes under this section do not come until force until the Secretary of State by regulations so provides.
253 Subsection (5) provides that the code to which draft regulations relate must be laid before Parliament at the same time as the draft regulations.
254 Subsection (6) requires any person performing any function under the Bill to have regard to any relevant provision of a code.
255 Subsection (7) provides that a failure to have regard to a relevant provision of a code does not of itself cause a person to be liable to criminal or civil proceedings, but may be taken into account in such proceedings.
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Source HL Bill 112 Explanatory Notes
256 Subsection (1) requires the Secretary of State to issue guidance relating to the operation of the Bill.
257 Subsection (2) clarifies that the guidance need not (but may) relate to Welsh devolved matters.
258 Subsection (3) requires the Secretary of State, before issuing guidance, to consult:
a. the Chief Medical Officer for England and the Chief Medical Officer for Wales;
b. persons with learnings disabilities and other persons who have protected characteristics (defined in subsection (9)) as the Secretary of State considers appropriate;
C. representatives of health and social care providers (including providers of palliative or end of life care) as the Secretary of State considers appropriate;
d. the Welsh Ministers, but only if the guidance relates to Welsh devolved matters; and
e. such other persons as the Secretary of State consider appropriate.
259 Subsection (4) enables the Welsh Ministers to issue guidance relating to the operation of the Bill, but only about matters within devolved competence.
260 Subsection (5) explains that “within devolved competence” means a matter that would be within the legislative competence of Senedd Cymru if it was contained in an Act of the Senedd.
261 Before issuing guidance, subsection (6) requires that Welsh Ministers consult the same descriptions of persons as the Secretary of State must consult under subsection (3), except they do not have to consult themselves or the Chief Medical Officer for England, and they must consult the Secretary of State.
262 Subsection (7) puts a duty on the “appropriate national authority" (defined in subsection (9) as the Secretary of State or the Welsh Ministers) to, when preparing guidance, have regard to the need to provide practical and accessible information to persons (including persons with learning disabilities) requesting assistance to end their own lives, the next of kin and families of such persons, and the general public.
263 Subsection (8) requires the appropriate national authority to publish any guidance they issue.
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Provision of and about voluntary assisted dying services
Source HL Bill 112 Explanatory Notes
264 Subsections (1) and (2) requires the Secretary of State to make regulations, to secure that arrangements are made for the commissioning of voluntary assisted dying (VAD) services in England, referred to as commissioned VAD services.
265 Under subsection (3), the Secretary of State may also make regulations about voluntary assisted dying services in England (whether or not those are commissioned VAD services).
266 Subsection (4) gives an example of what may be done by regulations made under this section - that particular references in the National Health Services Act 2006 to the health service include references to commissioned VAD services.
267 Subsection (5) requires that regulations must provide that section 1(4) of the National Health Service Act 2006 (services to be provided free of charge except where charging expressly provided for) applies in relation to commissioned VAD services.
268 Subsection (6) provides that regulations under this section may make any provision that could be made by an Act of Parliament, but they cannot amend this Bill.
269 Subsection (7) defines, “voluntary assisted dying services" as:
a. services for or in connection with the provision of assistance in accordance with this Bill, and
b. any other services provided by health professionals for the purposes of sections 5 to 30 except section 17.
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Source HL Bill 112 Explanatory Notes
270 Subsections (1) and (2) enable Welsh Ministers to make regulations, about VAD services in Wales. Such regulations may make any provision that could be made by an Act of Senedd Cymru, provided it is within the legislative competence of the Senedd.
271 Subsections (3), and (4)) give the Secretary of State the power to make regulations about voluntary assisted dying services in Wales. Such regulations may make any provision that could be made by an Act of Parliament, provided it is within the legislative competence of the Senedd.
272 Subsection (5) provides that regulations under section 42 cannot amend the Bill.
273 Subsection (6) gives “voluntary assisted dying services" the meaning given in clause 41 (7) that is, services for or in connection with providing assistance in accordance with this Bill, and any other services provided by health professionals for the purposes of sections 5 to 30 except section 17. Subsection (6) also makes clear that regulations made under this clause may include provision securing that arrangements are made for the commissioning of VAD services.
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Advertising
Source HL Bill 112 Explanatory Notes
274 Subsection (1) imposes a duty on the Secretary of State to make regulations prohibiting advertisements whose purpose or effect is to promote a voluntary assisted dying service.
275 Subsection (2) provides that these regulations may include exemptions, such as providing certain information to users or providers of services.
276 Subsection (3) provides that regulations made under clause 43 may make any provision that could be made by an Act of Parliament. This would enable future regulations to amend other legislation in order to achieve the desired prohibitions on advertising.
277 Under subsection (4), any offence created by regulations must be punishable with a fine.
278 A "voluntary assisted dying service" is defined in subsection (5) as:
a. any service for or in connection with the provision of assistance to a person in accordance with the Bill, or
b. any other service provided for the purposes of any sections 5 to 30.
Notifications and information
Source HL Bill 112 Explanatory Notes
279 Subsection (1) enables the Secretary of State to make regulations requiring a registered medical practitioner to notify the Commissioner of specified information.
280 Subsection (2) enables the Secretary of State to make regulations conferring on the Commissioner the ability to mandate specified persons to provide specified information.
281 Subsections (3) and (4) provide that regulations may set out the specific information required in such notifications; how the notifications are given; and the means to enforce the regulations.
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Source HL Bill 112 Explanatory Notes
282 Subsections (1) and (2) authorises the sharing of information between the Commissioner and certain persons.
283 Subsection (3) enables the sharing of information between the Commissioner and the Care Quality Commission, the General Medical Council, the General Pharmaceutical Council, and the Nursing and Midwifery Council for the purposes of any of their functions. The Secretary of State may also specify in regulations any other persons that the Commissioner may share information with and vice versa for the purposes of their respective functions.
284 Subsection (4) enables the sharing of information between the Commissioner and the Secretary of State for the purposes of any function of the Commissioner or any function of the Secretary of State relating to the operation of the Bill.
Source HL Bill 112 Explanatory Notes
285 Subsection (1) clarifies that where there is a disclosure of information that is required or authorised under the Bill, this will not breach any obligation of confidence or other restriction on disclosure.
286 Subsection (2) clarifies that the data protection legislation still applies and must be complied with.
287 Subsection (3) notes that “the data protection legislation” under this Bill has the same definition as in the Data Protection Act 2018.
Monitoring and review
Source HL Bill 112 Explanatory Notes
288 Subsection (1) places a duty on Secretary of State to, as soon as reasonably practicable after the end of each reporting period, prepare and publish, and lay before Parliament, a report about:
a. progress made in that period in connection with the implementation of the Bill; and
b. the Secretary of State's plans for implementing the Bill in subsequent reporting periods (including the expected timetable for implementation).
289 Subsections (2) and (3) set out the reporting periods as the first anniversary of the Bill from the day it has passed, and every six months thereafter, until the sixth and final reporting period.
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Source HL Bill 112 Explanatory Notes
290 Subsection (1) requires the Commissioner to appoint a Disability Advisory Board within six months of their appointment.
291 Subsection (2) sets out that the Board must include people who have a
Act for disabled people
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General and final
Page 39
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Schedules
The Voluntary Assisted Dying Commissioner
Status
General powers
Deputy Commissioner
Appointment and tenure of office
Page 44
Remuneration
Staff: appointed by Commissioner
Staff: secondment to Commissioner
Page 45
Staff: general
Financial and other assistance from the Secretary of State
Accounts
Page 46
Application of seal and proof of documents
Public Records Act 1958
House of Commons Disqualification Act 1975
Page 47
Freedom of Information Act 2000
Equality Act 2010
Assisted Dying Review Panels
Introduction
List of persons eligible to be panel members
Page 48
Tenure of persons appointed to list
Membership of panels
Decisions of panels
Panel sittings
Staff and facilities
Page 49
Practice and procedure
Reasons
Money
House of Commons Disqualification Act 1975
Protection from detriment
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No amendments available.