The States Chief Minister says euthanasia is a divisive issue

Politicians and members of the public are being body-searched as they enter the chamber in the Royal Court.

Deputy Peter Roffey, who has produced a minority report in favour of euthanasia said he would respect the result of the vote, whatever the outcome.

Chief Minister Laurie Morgan said the issue was fundamental but immensely complex and appealed to members to ensure they were properly briefed.

'Conscience' vote

Setting out his case, Mr Roffey has asked the House not to reject euthanasia for the wrong reasons.

He said: "Today members should vote with their conscience and not just with practicalities.

"If you think it is right, vote for my amendment and if you think it is wrong, vote against it and I will respect the outcome whatever it may be.

Chief Minister Laurie Morgan said he did not expect consensus on such a divisive and emotional issue.

"I very much hope that every member of this house has studied the report thoroughly," he said.

"It is essential when we vote on this matter, we do so from a position of knowledge and not from what we think we know.

"This is a fundamental yet immensely complex matter."