Homosexual Law Committee Wants Age Of Consent... (Press, 3 May 1975)

On 2 May 1975, the Parliamentary Select Committee in New Zealand recommended lowering the age of consent for homosexual acts from 21 to 20 years. This move aligns with their support for a bill that aims to legalise homosexual acts in private between consenting adults. The committee, chaired by Dr M. E. R. Bassett of the Labour Party, reported back the Crimes Amendment Bill to Parliament, stating that its basic intent was long overdue. Despite a majority supporting the bill, there were several dissenting voices within the committee. Dr G. A. Wall, a Labour committee member, expressed firm opposition and introduced additional amendments that were ultimately rejected. Similarly, Mr D. Thomson from the National Party opposed the bill's liberalising efforts. Yet, the majority included votes from both Opposition and Government members, reflecting personal convictions on the moral issues involved. The committee considered around 150 submissions and encompassed a wide range of views on homosexuality. In addition to the age of consent amendment, the bill was modified to criminalise the keeping of brothels for both heterosexual and homosexual prostitution, maintaining illegal status for procuring for reward. While the committee opted not to change the clause that imposed a maximum imprisonment of 14 years for adult homosexual assault on a child, they did revise the references protecting the mentally ill. Mr V. S. Young, who initially introduced the bill, noted that despite substantial amendments, the fundamental objectives remained intact. Parliament voted 52-17 to allow the bill to be debated further, thus scheduling it for a second reading. Following the vote, Acting Prime Minister Mr Tizard stated that the Government would handle the Crimes Amendment Bill similarly to another politically sensitive issue, abortion. Provision would be made for Government funding if the bill achieved passage. Those opposing the reporting back of the bill included several National and Labour Party members, which highlighted the divided opinions on the proposed legal changes. Dr Wall indicated that he would propose further amendments during the committee stages, including a provision to criminalise leading anyone under 20 to perceive homosexual acts as normal. Dr Wall also critiqued the Homosexual Law Reform Society, suggesting that their backing of the current bill was part of a strategy to portray a sense of responsible acceptance, with intentions of eventually advocating for complete acceptance of homosexuality in the future. The developments within the committee and Parliament signify a significant moment in New Zealand's legal approach to homosexuality during a period of social change.

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