M.P.s’ Attitudes Tougher On Homosexual Law (Press, 8 May 1985)

In Wellington, as of 8 May 1985, attitudes among the 94 members of the New Zealand Parliament regarding homosexual law reform are becoming more entrenched. All members will participate in a conscience vote on the legislation once it returns from public consideration, where it has undergone scrutiny from a select committee due to the numerous submissions received. The bill, introduced by Labour MP Fran Wilde from Wellington Central, aims to decriminalise homosexual acts between consenting adults, redefine “adult” as a male aged 16 or older, and amend Human Rights legislation to prohibit discrimination against homosexuals. Although there is a clear majority in support of the bill's introduction to Parliament, the likelihood of it remaining in its original, liberal form seems diminished. Two primary factors are influencing this shift. Firstly, a national petition opposing the legislation has garnered significant public backing, bolstering resistance to any changes in the law. This growing public sentiment is expected to affect MPs, particularly those who hold neutral views on the matter. Secondly, the issue appears to be increasingly polarising along party lines, despite an agreement to allow MPs to vote based on individual beliefs rather than party discipline. Prime Minister David Lange is in favour of some reform, while Opposition Leader Roger McLay is firmly against it, reflecting the prevailing views within their respective Labour and National parties. Mathematically, the dominance of Labour members suggests that if a majority of Labour MPs and some National members favour reform while most National MPs oppose it, a reform package could still pass, though it will likely not be as revolutionary as Ms Wilde's proposal. Changes to the Human Rights legislation may not be included, and the age of consent might be raised from 16 to 18 or even 20 years. Responses from Parliament members show a divide, with many National MPs openly opposing reform, while most Labour members express some level of support. Opposition to reform has been noted from MPs such as Doug Kidd, Robin Gray, Bill Birch, Roger McLay, and Bruce Townsend, whereas support for some reform emerges from figures like Ruth Richardson and Simon Upton. Among Labour members, the sentiment is more mixed; while many support reform, there are concerns about the age of consent and the proposed Human Rights amendments. Notably, MPs like Mike Moore are sceptical about the effectiveness of any legislative changes. With ongoing discussions, it appears that while a simple majority might favour decriminalising homosexual acts between consenting adults over a certain age, the debate is complex, reflecting both moral considerations and legal implications. There is a noted lack of awareness and misinformation regarding the bill, with calls for more public education on the subject.

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