Debate Advocated Before Homosexual Law Changes (Press, 7 August 1967)

On 6 August 1967, during a seminar at Otago University’s Faculty of Law, New Zealand’s Attorney-General, Mr Hanan, addressed the current sentiments surrounding laws against homosexuality. He articulated that the average New Zealander does not seem inclined to support any changes to existing laws prohibiting homosexual acts at this moment. Hanan highlighted the necessity for further debate and education on the implications of modifying such laws to ensure the public is adequately informed about the pros and cons. He pointed out a lack of political engagement from parties on this issue in New Zealand, suggesting that ordinary citizens may not be receptive to any alterations of the current legal framework. He did, however, note a growing interest from certain church leaders and university circles regarding the topic. Hanan referenced the changes that have taken place in England, where the issue has been more actively debated for years, raising a question about whether similar legislative changes would be justified in New Zealand over time. Hanan warned against hasty legislation, stating that premature changes could potentially generate substantial public resistance, ultimately delaying the implementation of desired reforms. He mentioned the Wolfenden Committee in the UK, which advocated that consensual homosexual acts between adults in private should not be criminalised, a recommendation that has sparked controversy in New Zealand as well. Hanan also rebutted arguments suggesting that decriminalising homosexual acts might lead to an increase in offences against children. He presented statistics indicating that only about 5 percent of the prison population had been convicted for offences involving males, both over and under 21 years, in 1964. He emphasised the distinct nature of legal frameworks concerning offences against children, stating there would be no intention to legalise homosexual acts against minors. Concerns were raised that relaxing homosexual laws would result in a surge of incidents, with Hanan critiquing this notion as implying that many men are deterred from homosexual behaviour solely due to the fear of legal repercussions. He argued that this perspective underestimates the inherent social sanctions that would still exist against homosexuality, regardless of legislative changes. In summary, Mr Hanan's remarks reflected a cautious stance on the potential reformation of homosexuality laws in New Zealand, advocating for informed discussion and careful consideration before any legislative action is undertaken.

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