Debate On Private Bills Ruled Out (Press, 18 June 1975)

On 17 June 1975, the New Zealand Government, led by Deputy Prime Minister Mr Tizard, announced its decision to prioritise government business in Parliament starting from the following day. This move is expected to provoke a significant confrontation with the Opposition. The government indicated that this prioritisation would remain in effect for the remainder of the parliamentary session, effectively sidelining private members' bills unless exceptions were granted. Among the private member's bills that could be impacted is the Crimes Amendment Bill, proposed by National Party member Mr V. S. Young from Egmont, which aims to decriminalise homosexual acts between consenting adult males in private. The government currently has around 30 pieces of legislation on the Order Paper, with more under consideration by Select Committees, in addition to the anticipated introduction of major legislation such as the revised Commerce Bill before the session concludes. The decision to give precedence to government business so early in the session is viewed as controversial, and the Opposition is preparing to contest this move vigorously. The situation highlights ongoing tensions within the New Zealand Parliament regarding legislative priorities and the treatment of private members' initiatives.

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