AS a retired GP, I note with interest your article on doctors' attitudes to assisted dying ("Doctors reject claim most back assisted suicide", The Herald, March 19 ) and the associated letter from a group of doctors from one part of Scotland.

It is clear there is a difference of opinion amongst doctors on this issue, but the wider public have made their position clear.

In the Highlands and Islands, where all of the signatories to this letter are from, support for the Assisted Suicide (Scotland) Bill stands at 64% of voters, according to a poll we conducted in January, with only 14% opposed.

The My Life, My Death, My Choice campaign recognises it is important that the debate amongst professionals continues. Organisations such as the Royal College Of General Practitioners in Scotland, after taking a poll of their members, have decided to take no official position regarding the Bill precisely because there is such a wide range of opinions amongst doctors.

We respect the beliefs of those who disagree with the Bill, which is why no doctor will be compelled to take part in the process were the Bill to pass.

We hope those with concerns will work with us to ensure the final Bill includes strong safeguards for doctors and vulnerable groups, whilst protecting the choice of those who are enduring unimaginable suffering from a terminal or life-shortening condition and wish to end their lives on their own terms.

Passing the Bill would allow doctors to care more for their patients by helping them to avoid unnecessary suffering.

Bob Scott,

Spokesman, My Life, My Death, My Choice campaign,

13 Hill Street, Edinburgh.

It is completely irrelevant how many learned doctors, clerics or anyone else support or oppose Margo MacDonald's Assisted Suicide (Scotland) Bill. The only people whose opinion matters are those who, of sound mind, wish to be able to avail themselves of the opportunity to end their lives in a dignified and peaceful manner, at a time of their own choosing.

My late father existed through three appalling years of terminal dementia, after five years of gradual deterioration. He was a GP and knew perfectly well what was happening to him. One of the last coherent things he said to me was, "This is no bloody life - we live far too long!"

I know from my own long experience as a GP that, despite best efforts, palliative care is not always successful, and a peaceful, dignified end is not always possible.

Why are so many people afraid of this Bill? I would be more afraid of ending up like my father.

Dr John N E Rankin,

1 Anne Drive,

Bridge Of Allan.