Paul Lamb: New Face Of Right-To-Die Battle

A man who is almost totally paralysed has waived his right to anonymity in a legal battle to end his life with the help of a doctor.

Paul Lamb, who was severely injured in a car accident 23 years ago, was previously referred to only as 'Patient L' in papers submitted to the High Court.

But at his request judges have lifted the anonymity order - allowing him to become the figurehead of the right-to-die case started by locked-in sufferer Tony Nicklinson.

Mr Lamb told Sky News that his life was unbearable. But he's unable to take his own life and doesn't want to travel to a Swiss suicide clinic.

He said: "It's all wrong. You should be able to do it in the comfort of your own home, with the people who love you and say goodbye. I'd do it with a smile on my face."

Mr Lamb is in constant pain from his injuries and totally dependent on carers. He says he has to suffer daily indignity, with a nurse having to physically empty his bowel.

He said: "You never get used to it. I am worn out."

He said he was "proud" to take the place of Mr Nicklinson in the on-going legal case.

Mr Nicklinson died last August, just a week after being told by judges that only parliament could change the law and allow doctors to help him die without fear of a murder charge.

But his widow is continuing the campaign, and together with Mr Lamb will appeal the ruling later this summer.

Their solicitor, Saimo Chahal of Bindmans, argues that the courts already make difficult decisions on withdrawing life support from patients - and could similarly give individuals like Mr Lamb the right to die.

"In a case like this where the issues are complicated and controversial ... the courts should look at them on a case-by-case basis.

"So in a way it is not as daunting because it wouldn't be a full-scale change to the law."

But Dr Peter Saunders of Ccare Not Killing said change would "drive a coach and horses through the murder law".

He said: "The law is as it is to protect vulnerable people.

"If the law were to change to allow euthanasia it would put vulnerable elderly and disabled people at risk of feeling that they had a duty to end their lives so as not to be a burden to loved ones or society."