Video explains what assisted suicide involves, debunking myths

A video backing assisted suicide has been produced by a campaign group backing the proposals.

My Life, My Death, My Choice launched the video ahead of Holyrood's Health Committee taking evidence on the assisted suicide bill next week.

The video highlights who would be eligible for assisted suicide, the safeguards which would be put in place and the processes involved.

Campaign spokesman Bob Scott said: "Our discussions with MSPs recently have indicated that some are not fully aware of the measures included in the bill.

"In particular, some have expressed concern that what is being proposed is euthanasia. We want to make clear that this is not the case and that what is being proposed is very different.

"We also want to make clear that the bill only applies to those with a terminal or life-shortening conditions and that it is only those who choose to use the provisions of the bill who will be eligible."

However critics say it would put pressure on vulnerable people to end their lives for fear of being a financial, emotional or care burden upon others.

The bill was brought forward by former MSP Margo MacDonald, who died in April last year after suffering with Parkinson's disease.

It is the second attempt to pass such a bill at the Scottish Parliament, the first having been voted down by MSPs in 2010.

Scott added: "We know that a significant majority of the Scottish electorate, 69% according to a poll we conducted last year, support the bill and that over 70% of responses to the Health and Sport Committee consultation were also supportive.

"It is time for the politicians to catch-up with public opinion and pass this legislation as quickly as possible."

Among those appearing in the video are Rev Scott McKenna, a Church of Scotland minister, criminal advocate Niall McClusky and Tim McGuire of the Humanist Society Scotland.