Attack On Petition Called Spurious (Press, 28 March 1985)

In a news article published on 28 March 1985, Graeme Lee, a National Party MP from Hauraki, defended a petition opposing the homosexual law reform legislation in New Zealand, claiming that accusations made against it were unfounded. Lee highlighted that assertions regarding the petition’s handling, particularly those alleging that young people were improperly involved in canvassing efforts at schools, were exaggerated and reflected fear among supporters of the reform. He asserted that there had been no directives for students to promote the petition, and any petitioning in schools required the principal's approval. Lee expressed concern that some critics of the petition were alarmed by the participation of minors, stating that their involvement demonstrated the public's interest in the matter. He noted that the petition included a warning advising that while anyone could sign, it was best for minors to be of secondary school age or older before doing so. Specifically, he encouraged young individuals who may be "at risk" due to the proposed reforms to take part in the petition process. Further addressing criticisms, Lee refuted claims that the Salvation Army misused its Red Shield income for the petition. He clarified that funding for the petition came from the general public, not the Salvation Army, and this misuse allegation only underscored the desperation of its opponents. Lee mentioned that the campaign headquarters in Auckland was actively engaged in gathering support for the petition, which had received significant backing across the country. Alongside his associates, Geoff Braybrooke from the Labour Party and Norman Jones from the National Party, Lee planned to speak at various meetings throughout New Zealand in locations such as Auckland, Christchurch, Nelson, Napier, and others, reflecting an extensive effort to rally support against the homosexual law reform. The petition and its promotion have become a point of contention, revealing the divisions in public opinion regarding the decriminalisation of homosexual acts between consenting males.

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