IT IS now definite that a bill for assisted dying will be introduced into the House of Commons very shortly, by Rob Marris MP.

This bill will seek to legalise assisted dying for terminally ill, mentally competent adults within upfront safeguards.

While public opinion is strongly in favour of a change in the law, our politicians, as if often the case, are out of touch.

Much legislation that started huge social changes had to be introduced by single MPs as no political party would deal with the often emotive issues.

It is vital that our MPs realise the strength of public opinion.

While they may have comfort in having the means to ensure they personally do not have to suffer a slow, painful death, these options are not available to the average person.

Worst still is when a politician objects for religious reasons, meaning that their own personal religious opinions are forced on to others who may chose to live by a different set of beliefs.

All we in the pro campaign want is freedom of choice for every individual, as one of many options, the choice of an assisted death if they are close to death and want to ensure that they do not have to suffer pain if things get too much.

We are not forcing our opinions on anyone else, as is the case at the moment.

We treat our animals with more love and compassion than we do humans, and that cannot be right.

I would therefore urge everyone to write to your MP, and tell them why you think the law concerning assisted dying should be changed.

It is only with the voice of the public being mobilised that the politicians will have to listen.

Steve Parlanti, Maxfield Close, Eastbourne