The Liberal Democrats have called for a free vote in Parliament on the issue of assisted dying. At their Autumn Conference on 24 September delegates passed a policy motion, Medically Assisted Dying. The motion reaffirms the party's support for a "debate and free vote in Parliament" on legislation allowing medically assisted dying "in limited circumstances and with extensive safeguards".

Chris Davies MEP, who moved the motion, said: "As the recent case of Tony Nicklinson demonstrated, there are a number of people with conditions that inflict unendurable suffering and from which they have no chance of recovering, who want to end their lives but are unable to do so without medical assistance.

"More than 200 British citizens have now made their way to Switzerland to have their wishes met and secure help to die.

"It is time for Parliament to act and our European neighbours, Belgium and the Netherlands, have proven that laws can be framed to include safeguards that prevent the risk of abuse. Liberal Democrats believe MPs should be given the chance to have a free vote on legislation to allow people, in specific circumstances, to end their life with medical help."

The debate follows in the wake of the controversial case of Tony Nicklinson, who died days after losing a High Court case brought to allow doctors to help him commit suicide. It is an issue which has divided experts, from a medical ethics as well as a philosophical viewpoint. The High Court ruled that it would be to "usurp the proper role of Parliament". Mr Nicklinson's wife Jane has launched an 'article 8' appeal.
Labour peer Lord Falconer is expected to introduce a Bill on the issue in the Lords.