'Rebuff’ To Law Reformers (Press, 5 August 1971)
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Summary: 'Rebuff’ To Law Reformers (Press, 5 August 1971)
The Cabinet and caucus of New Zealand's Government have decided not to reform the law that prohibits homosexual acts between consenting adult men in private. This decision is being interpreted by the Homosexual Law Reform Society as a failure to respond to shifting public sentiment. Professor J. H. Robb, the president of the society, remarked on the Prime Minister Sir Keith Holyoake's comments at the Young Nationalists' conference in Dunedin, indicating that this stance represents a setback for younger members of the National Party who previously advocated for changes in party policy regarding this issue. The younger party members seek social justice, arguing that granting equality before the law to the estimated 45,000 to 50,000 homosexual men in New Zealand would not harm the wider community. Professor Robb noted that the Government's choice appears to disregard the views of several religious groups, including the Methodist and Presbyterian Churches, the Associated Churches of Christ, the Quakers, and certain influential voices within the Anglican community. Support for legal reform also comes from organisations such as the Jaycees and the Council for Civil Liberties, suggesting a substantial base of responsible opinion in favour of change. Professor Robb highlighted the inconsistency in the Prime Minister’s position, pointing out that Sir Keith had previously acknowledged a shift in public opinion on the matter. This inconsistency raises questions about the rationale behind the Government’s decision, as expressed by the Prime Minister’s uncertain affirmation that the decision was made “wisely or not.”
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