§ Lord Lester of Herne Hill asked Her Majesty's Government:
§ Whether they will publish practical guidance about the making of advance directives on the provision and withdrawal of medical treatment and the legal and ethical significance of such directives. [HL4761]
§ The Parliamentary Secretary, Lord Chancellor's Department (Baroness Scotland of Asthal)On 10 April 2002 the Government published a consultation documentMaking Decisions: Helping People who have Difficulty Deciding for Themselves. This seeks views on a series of leaflets which provide help and guidance for adults who due to mental incapacity need support to make decisions and also for those involved in caring for them. The leaflets give information on a range of topics involving decision-making. These include an explanation of the current legal position with regard to the making of advance directives which can be used to 40WA request or refuse medical treatment. Responses to the consultation document are sought by 9 July 2002 and we plan to publish the final leaflets later this year.