Homosexual Associations Not Legalised (Press, 24 January 1969)

On 23 January 1969, the Dutch Lower House of Parliament rejected two resolutions aimed at providing legal recognition for the Dutch Association of Homosexuals, known as the "C.O.C." (Cultural and Relaxation Centre). The resolutions were introduced by female parliament members and sought to address the legal status of the association, which has existed for 20 years. The first resolution urged the Minister of Justice to focus solely on legal considerations when deciding whether to grant Royal approval for the association's statutes. Despite support from various political groups, including the Labour Party, Pacifist Socialists, Democratic Party, Radical Catholics, Communists, and two Liberals, this resolution was defeated by a vote of 66 to 47. The second resolution aimed to amend Dutch law to eliminate the requirement for Royal approval for associations to achieve legal status. This proposal was also rejected, garnering support mainly from the Democratic Party, Labour Party, Radical Catholics, and Communists, but failing to pass without a division. Additionally, there is ongoing discussion in Parliament regarding a proposal to repeal a section of the penal code that imposes a maximum four-year prison sentence for an adult engaging in sexual relations with a minor of the same sex, where a minor is defined as someone under 21 years of age. The debate reflects a broader and intensifying controversy surrounding the legal recognition of homosexuals in the Netherlands, as evidenced by public interest and media discussion on the subject. Outside Parliament, around 100 homosexuals greeted the arriving members with heart-shaped sweets that read messages like “Like a Kiss” and “See You Tonight," highlighting the changing attitudes towards homosexuality in Dutch society. Over recent years, there has been significant progress in public perception, with clubs for homosexuals emerging and operating without police interference, provided they are orderly. Advocates assert that homosexual love should be recognised as equally valid as heterosexual love, insisting that existing legislation against it constitutes discrimination. In a separate report on the same day, the Goulburn wool sale concluded with strong competition and full firmness across various wool descriptions, with nearly all 4,800 bales sold. The main buyers included Japan, the Continent, and the United Kingdom, indicating robust international demand for New Zealand wool.

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