Dr. Irwin struck off by GMC

Dr. Michael Irwin, former chairman of the Voluntary Euthanasia Society, said he would continue his fight to legalise doctor-assisted suicide after being found guilty of acting "unprofessionally, inappropriately and irresponsibly" by the General Medical Council, the Daily Telegraph reported on 28 Sept. 05. He "travelled to Patrick Kneen's home in the Isle of Man in 2003 with the intention of helping him to die," though he did not actually do so. He had prescribed a Class C drug in his own name. Dr. Irwin plans to appeal to the High Court.

ALERT commented in a statement: "We congratulate the General Medical Council on their action in this case. Thank goodness they are on this occasion upholding medical ethics and the safety of patients."