Bishop Mark Strange, Primus of the Scottish Episcopal Church, responds to the outcome of the Scottish Parliament vote on the Assisted Dying for Terminally Ill Adults (Scotland) Bill:

“Last night the Scottish Parliament concluded its lengthy debate on the Member’s Bill introduced by Liam McArthur MSP seeking to permit assisted dying in Scotland,” said the Primus.

“The decision to reject the bill will not please everyone – we live in a society divided by this issue and some very strong opinions are held. Nevertheless, we thank members of the Scottish Parliament for their care and attention to debating this bill.

“The provincial Church in Society Committee and members of the Doctrine Committee responded to the consultation paper on this bill during its journey towards debate in the Parliament, saying:

The Scottish Episcopal Church includes people with a wide diversity of opinions on this and many other matters. Whilst believing the principle that all humanity was created in the image of God, and that all human life is sacred, many will support a legal, pastoral, and carefully approached end to suffering in cases of terminal illness. Others will oppose any legislation which seeks to bring about deliberate ending of life.

“Those words of course did not please those who expected a definite position.

“The Church’s calling is to listen and to care for those who are facing end of life issues. We will continue to support those who work in and with palliative care and who aim to provide the best end-of-life experience possible. We will continue to walk alongside those who are struggling with terminal illness and their families.

“Above all, we will continue to follow Christ’s call to love one another with compassion, to honour the dignity of every person, and to bear witness to hope even in the midst of suffering.

“Whatever differing convictions we may hold on assisted dying, we remain united in our commitment to accompany those at the end of life with prayer, tenderness, and faithful presence.”