Most people with "locked-in syndrome", which leaves patients aware of their surroundings but unable to move or speak, are happy, according to the biggest survey of people with the condition, published in the journal BMJ Open.

The study, from experts in Belgium and France, could reopen the debate about whether people commonly regarded as "trapped" in their own bodies are candidates for euthanasia or assisted suicide.

Tony Nicklinson, who has the condition, explained his scepticism over the research to reporter Zubeida Malik and Professor Steven Laureys of Liege University, who led the research, explains the findings.

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