David Crisafulli reveals stance on euthanasia laws
LNP leader David Crisafulli has pledged to maintain an “open mind” ahead of new euthanasia laws being introduced to parliament this week.
QLD Politics
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David Crisafulli won’t say if he personally supports voluntary assisted dying as he pledges to approach the issue with an open mind ahead of new laws being introduced to parliament this week.
The LNP leader on Sunday reiterated his commitment that his MPs would be given a conscience vote, but said he was yet to read the Queensland Law Reform Commission’s report.
Asked if he was personally in support of voluntary assisted dying, Mr Crisafulli would not say but insisted he would approach the debate with an “open mind”.
“And that’s exactly what I’m asking of all of my team,” he said.
“And let me be clear, when I talk about conscience vote, I mean it.
“I don’t mean the kind of conscience vote where people get heavied and there will be people leaning over others’ shoulders.
“Whatever decision I come to, I don’t want to see people following that like a conga line. I want people to treat this with respect.”
Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk unveiled the QLRC’s report and draft legislation on the issue last week, declaring that she would be voting for the Bill “when the time comes”.
In February, The Courier-Mail asked every MP how they intended to vote and only 21 said they would vote in favour, while 14 indicated they supported VAD in principle – falling short of a majority.
Mr Crisafulli on Sunday said he prayed both sides would be given a “genuine” conscience vote as he confirmed he would start reading the QLRC’s report this week.
Once the legislation is introduced to parliament this week, it will be analysed by a parliamentary committee that will receive more feedback from the community before making any final recommendations to the government ahead of a vote.
Mr Crisafulli acknowledged there was “passion” that existed on both sides of the debate.
“We’re going to have many months of analysis,” the Opposition Leader said.
“And I hope the committee system also does a thorough analysis. And I hope the committee system does look at ways to make sure the legislation is as strong as it can be.”
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