Germany passes limited assisted suicide law

Germany parliament has passed a bill allowing assisted suicide for “altruistic motives” but banning the practice in cases where it is being conducted on a “business” basis.

The issue is a sensitive topic in a country where euthanasia was used by the Nazis to kill more than 200,000 people with physical and mental disabilities.

MPs voted 360-233 in favour, despite fears voiced by many that it could lead to charges against doctors.