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Euthanasia Bill Easily Snuffed Out, Says Libz

Libertarianz Deputy Leader Richard McGrath sympathises with NZ First MP Peter Brown's stand in favour of voluntary euthanasia, but says that the issue is too important to be decided by politicians.

"The freedom to end one's life is inviolable and therefore deserving of constitutional protection," says McGrath. "Even if this private member's bill succeeds in changing the law to permit euthanasia, a right-wing conservative government might just as easily repeal it. The Alliance, on the other hand, would probably support compulsory euthanasia - and fund it from an increase in taxation."

"My party holds that an individual - not the state - is the rightful owner of his life. As such, he should have first say over just when and how his life will end," explains McGrath. "Libertarianz have crafted a Bill of Rights that would enshrine forever the freedom for people to choose voluntary euthanasia over a lingering and agonising death. If Mr Brown and others want to protect this freedom, then they should push for constitutional reform."

ENDS

For further information please contact: Dr Richard McGrath Fax 06 377 3070 mongrel@winz.co.nz

Libertarianz' Proposed Bill of Rights: http://www.freeradical.co.nz/content/constitution/rights.html

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