Assisted dying

The weakness of Jeremy Balfour's arguments about personal autonomy, dignity and assisted dying (Opinion, 5 March) is the parallel he draws. The debate about this highly sensitive issue is not enhanced by reference to French and German court decisions on the right to participate in peep-shows and dwarf tossing sports.

We were not told about the mental health of the individuals who wanted to take part. Even if we had been there is always a case for providing safeguards to ensure they are not subjected to public humiliation. The argument about assisted dying focuses on a very private matter and is qualitatively different.

I'm sure nobody who supports MSP Margo MacDonald's bill would ever tell another human being that his or her life is not worth living. But when an individual makes an informed and sincere choice, without pressure, to bring their life to an end, that cannot be construed as an affront to dignity. Even more so when you consider that, under the terms of the proposed law, doctors and psychiatrists would consider the validity of any request to die. That would not be an undignified situation. Along with other safeguards, it would be civilised situation.

There would be no "slippery slope" because democratic scrutiny would help ensure protection against abuse.

BOB TAYLOR

Shiel Court

Glenrothes