Homosexual Law Reform (Press, 27 August 1979)

In a letter to the editor published on 27 August 1979, Martin Oelderink, the regional representative of the National Gay Rights Coalition, commended Mr Freer for his decision to withdraw his homosexual law reform bill. However, Oelderink expressed strong disapproval of Freer's portrayal of the opposition from gay rights groups regarding the bill. He highlighted the group's frustration at being asked to accept an age of consent set at 20, which, in their view, compromised the rights of younger male homosexuals. Oelderink questioned whether Freer genuinely expected the community to accept a bill that could impose criminal penalties of up to five years for those under the age of 20 engaged in consensual relationships. Furthermore, Oelderink argued that the proposed legislation did not address the ongoing discrimination faced by lesbian women and gay men, contrary to the Labour Party's own principles that advocate for the full respect of rights for all individuals, regardless of sexual orientation. He articulated a deep resentment towards what he termed an attempt to impose moral legislation on a minority group and called for Parliament to repeal all laws that discriminated against homosexuality. Through this letter, Oelderink underscored the necessity for more inclusive legislation that respects the rights and dignity of all individuals in the LGBTQ+ community.

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