THOUSANDS of people die each year at the hands of doctors or loving relatives. Death is recorded as being from 'natural causes.' This mercy killing is unregulated, yet there is rarely an outcry.

Diane Pretty broke the taboo by publicly demanding the right to choose for herself when to die. She had great public sympathy. We can all imagine ourselves in her position; mentally alert but paralysed and facing an appalling death.

It is nonsense to suggest that a law to meet the needs of people like Diane will lead to euthanasia of the old. The Dutch have legal arrangements which include safeguards to prevent such abuse.

The patient must be incurably ill and in great distress without hope of relief. A request must be made in writing, repeated over a period of months, and at least two doctors must independently give their assent.

The cause of death must be officially recorded as 'assisted suicide.' A review committee considers each case and sends a report to the prosecution service. The patient's wishes must have been met without influence from relatives or others.

British politicians should have the courage to follow the Dutch example.

CHRIS DAVIES, (Liberal Democrat MEP for the North West), Castle Street, Stockport.