Changes in BMA policy on assisted dying

In June 2005, the BMA became the third UK medical organisation to withdraw its opposition to the legalisation of assisted dying. Despite its history of opposition, delegates at the annual representative meeting voted narrowly to leave the matter to parliament. The royal colleges of general practitioners and physicians withdrew opposition in October 2004, saying it was a matter for society but stressing that neutrality was not support for assisted dying. 1 2 However, the colleges are reviewing their stance because of criticism from members. This paper considers the events leading up to the change in BMA policy and its implications for future work surrounding the issue.