Petition Seeks Law Reform (Press, 5 July 1968)

On 4 July 1968, a petition was presented to the New Zealand Parliament advocating for significant reforms in criminal law, particularly concerning homosexuality and prisoner rehabilitation. The petition, introduced by Labour MP Mr J. L. Hunt on behalf of Dr A. M. Finlay, was developed by the New Zealand Howard League for Penal Reform, an established society focused on reducing crime rates and enhancing offender rehabilitation. The petition called for the implementation of recommendations from the British Wolfenden report, which suggested that consensual homosexual acts between adults in private should no longer be considered a criminal offence. This reflects a growing movement towards decriminalising homosexuality and acknowledging individual rights regarding personal relationships. In addition to the decriminalisation of homosexuality, the petition urged the Government to improve mental health resources, specifically emphasising the need for more psychologists and psychiatrists to address issues related to homosexuality. It also proposed reforms to the prison system, recommending the use of unwalled prisons for most inmates, following practices observed in some foreign facilities. This change aimed at creating a more rehabilitative rather than punitive environment for prisoners. Furthermore, the petition sought to limit the incarceration of first-time offenders, suggesting that alternative measures should be considered to prevent them from entering the prison system. It also called for adjustments in the criteria for probation staff, suggesting that the requirement for university entrance for applicants should be relaxed in appropriate cases. Additionally, the petition requested permission for prisoners to have home leave once a month, provided that public safety remained a priority. Lastly, it proposed that judges and magistrates involve a psychiatrist or psychologist, along with a welfare worker, in sentencing discussions to ensure a more informed and compassionate approach to punishment. This petition marks a significant moment in New Zealand's legislative history, highlighting the shift towards a more progressive stance on issues of sexuality and criminal justice reform.

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