There are more humane ways to die than starving

25 August 2009Now that a person may legally choose to die through starvation, it's time to provide more humane options, writes George Williams in the Sydney Morning Herald

THE RIGHT TO DIE has been recognised in a landmark decision by the Chief Justice of Western Australia, Wayne Martin. While he was at pains to say the case was not about doctors assisting patients to die, there is no doubt he has set an important precedent. In permitting a person to starve to death, he has also opened a debate about whether people should be allowed legal access to more humane ways to die...

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George Williams is the Anthony Mason professor of law at the University of NSW

Illustration: Simon Letch/ SMH

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