P.m. For Reform Bill (Press, 30 April 1985)

On 30 April 1985, Prime Minister David Lange expressed his intention to support a private member's bill aimed at reforming homosexual laws once it returned to Parliament. The bill was initially introduced on 8 March 1985 while Lange was overseas. Upon his return, he confirmed his backing for the bill and stated his unchanged stance on the issue. During a post-Cabinet press conference, Lange noted that the Leader of the Opposition, Jim McLay, had initially supported the bill's introduction, albeit with some concerns regarding the proposed age of consent. However, it appeared that McLay had now decided to oppose the bill. Lange characterised the existing laws concerning homosexuality as irrational, asserting that individuals should have the freedom to determine their moral choices in regards to their personal conduct without legal imposition. He dismissed any notion that decriminalising homosexual acts would amount to governmental endorsement of such behaviour, describing that idea as nonsense. Furthermore, Lange expressed disbelief at the idea that Christian ethics would justify imprisoning practising homosexuals, calling that perspective bizarre. Lange also suggested that McLay's shift from an initial supportive position did not necessarily mean that the Opposition would vote strictly along party lines on the legislation. Overall, the Prime Minister's comments reflected a commitment to reforming New Zealand's laws around homosexuality and indicated a desire for a more progressive approach to personal rights and freedoms.

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