Dignity in dying

SIR – I suspect that some of your readers may have been dismayed, perhaps even shocked by the Channel 4 TV programme Reverend Death shown on May 19. This story demonstrates the genuine need for proper assisted dying legislation. While there is no such

SIR - I suspect that some of your readers may have been dismayed, perhaps even shocked by the Channel 4 TV programme Reverend Death shown on May 19.

This story demonstrates the genuine need for proper assisted dying legislation.

While there is no such law in place, neither patients or the doctors treating them, are really protected.

In this country the damaging consequences of the absence of such a law include violent suicides, 'mercy killings' leading caring relatives to face criminal charges and people travelling outside of the country to be assisted to die peacefully at a time of their choice.

The organisation Dignity in Dying, of which I am a member, believes this to be important and campaigns for a law in the UK-based on the importance of choice in this 'end of life' matter for adults who are terminally-ill, but mentally competent and able to make a fully informed decision.

Reg Pyne OBE,

Lodgefield,

WGC.