Dr Wall’s Amendment May Go No Further (Press, 20 June 1975)
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Summary: Dr Wall’s Amendment May Go No Further (Press, 20 June 1975)
On 19 June 1975, New Zealand Prime Minister Mr Rowling addressed the controversial amendment to the Crimes Amendment Bill during a statement that effectively undermined its prospects. The bill, originally proposed by Mr V. S. Young from the National Party, aimed to legalise homosexual acts in private between consenting adult males. However, Dr G. A. Wall from the Labour Party moved an amendment that sought to criminalise attempts to persuade individuals under the age of 20 that homosexuality was “normal.” Mr Rowling made it clear that he would not facilitate the required Governor-General’s “message” for the amendment, signalling significant opposition to its adoption. When pressed on what he might do if it appeared that Members of Parliament (M.P.s) were inclined to support the amendment, Mr Rowling expressed confidence in his understanding of the prevailing mood within Parliament. This statement pointed towards a broader resistance within the government to endorse the amendment, reflecting the contentious nature of the bill and the societal attitudes towards homosexuality at the time.
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