Scotland’s First Minister has “significant concerns” over 16 and 17-year-olds being given the right to end their lives under proposed laws on ‘assisted dying’.

John Swinney said the minimum age was a “very significant issue” and is two years younger than what is being considered in Westminster.

The Assisted Dying for Terminally Ill Adults (Scotland) Bill is at stage one in the Scottish parliament.

The SNP leader voted against two attempts to legalise assisted dying in Scotland, in 2010 and 2015.

The bill, championed by Liam McArthur, a Liberal Democrat MSP, would allow a terminally-ill person aged 16 or over to ask for their life to be ended. Those who seek an early death would need to have lived in Scotland for at least a year, be registered with a GP in the country and be mentally competent.