Fight continues to ban euthanasia book

Pro-life groups trying to stop a euthanasia book from going on sale are vowing to fight on despite their latest efforts being rejected.

The Film and Literature Review Board declined last week requests by Right to Life and The Society for the Promotion of Community Standards for interim restriction orders on Australian euthanasia campaigner Philip Nitschke's Peaceful Pill Handbook.

The order would have stopped distribution to New Zealand shops till a review of chief censor Bill Hastings' decision to allow its sale was heard.

Both groups are seeking a review of the decision in which Mr Hastings allowed the sale of the book to over-18s. A hearing is set down for August 25.

David Lane, executive director of The Society for the Promotion of Community Standards, said the group would apply for another restriction order.

Right to Life spokesman Ken Orr said he was disappointed by the decision. The group would present a submission to the August hearing asking that the book be deemed objectionable and be banned.

The book, which outlines ways people can kill themselves, has sparked concern that it will encourage depressed teens and the elderly to commit suicide.

It was banned in New Zealand last year but the Office of Film and Literature Classification lifted the ban after it was revised. It was given an R18 rating and must be sealed when sold.

Dr Nitschke, founder of pro-euthanasia group Exit International, said copies would be available at a Christchurch conference on July 5 before being distributed to bookshops.

"We are thrilled the injunction has been turned down. It gives us till August to get the book distributed."

Another workshop is to be held in Dunedin on July 6.

Dr Nitschke said his group was looking for a Dunedin venue after the original venue, the Kingsgate Hotel, cancelled the booking because of negative phone calls and fear of protests.

- © Fairfax NZ News