Assisted death... a dying taboo?

IN September 2013 scientist Professor Stephen Hawking spoke in favour of assisted suicide for people with terminal diseases, reigniting a debate that has been gathering momentum ever since.

The 71-year-old cosmologist, who has motor neurone disease, told the BBC: “We don’t let animals suffer, so why humans? I think those who have a terminal illness and are in great pain should have the right to choose to end their lives, and those who help them should be free from prosecution.”

Professor Hawking had previously been less supportive of the right to die, saying in 2006 it was a mistake as “there is always hope”.