Tue 11 Oct 2016 In: International News View at Wayback View at NDHA
The Australian public will not be voting on marriage equality as the proposed plebiscite has been blocked by the Labor Party following consultation with LGBTI advocacy groups and health experts. Opposition leader Bill Shorten revealed the decision at Parliament House saying, “The Labor Party will in parliament oppose Malcolm Turnbull’s expensive, divisive plebiscite.” He spoke of the detrimental effects this would have on LGBTI mental health and says “We’ve listened to the experts, to mental health professionals, and the experts have unequivocally explained to Labor that the plebiscite could cause harm to gay and lesbian people, particularly, but not exclusively, young people.” “Having met these families, having listened to these stories, I could not in good conscience recommend the Labor Party that we support the plebiscite about marriage equality.” Shorten says he will continue to push for a free vote to take place in parliament on the issue however news.com.au reports that senior Government ministers have made it clear that this won’t happen. The plebiscite was expected to cost more than $200 million and take place in February.
Credit: GayNZ.com Daily News staff
First published: Tuesday, 11th October 2016 - 2:49pm