Gay Rights Survey Sent To Candidates (Press, 22 November 1978)

On 22 November 1978, candidates in New Zealand's upcoming elections were being influenced by public sentiment regarding homosexual law reform and the potential expansion of the Human Rights Commission Act to encompass sexual orientation. Mr R. Duff, the co-ordinator for the National Gay Rights Coalition, made these observations in Christchurch. Survey results from Hamilton, Wellington, and Christchurch indicated a notable level of support among voters for legal changes aimed at recognising homosexual rights. Specifically, a survey distributed to all election candidates revealed that 65 per cent were in favour of amending the Crimes Act to reflect these changes. Conversely, only 6 per cent opposed any reforms, while 29 per cent chose not to express a definitive opinion. The survey received substantial responses from Labour Party candidates, with 45 electorates contributing, and 29 responses from National Party candidates. Notably, the Values Party had the highest engagement, with 71 candidates replying to the survey. Mr Duff expressed disappointment over the lack of responses from a significant number of National Party candidates, particularly sitting Members of Parliament. He stated that it was disheartening for a party that claims a strong human rights record to ignore such an important issue. The response rate from candidates in marginal electorates was notably low, with most candidates appearing non-committal or evasive regarding their stance. Furthermore, the leaders of the major parties also exhibited a reluctance to engage with the topic. Labour leader Mr Rowling declined to participate in the survey, while National leader Mr Muldoon did not respond at all. Mr Beetham, affiliated with the Social Credit League, opted not to commit to a position, instead directing attention to his party's policies. Mr Duff remarked that the Prime Minister's silence on these important issues was unprecedented, reflecting a lack of clarity on the government's stance towards homosexual law reform. This lack of engagement from candidates and party leaders suggests a crucial moment in New Zealand's political landscape regarding LGBTQ+ rights, with the upcoming elections poised to reveal the prevailing attitudes and potential shifts in law for the future.

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