Bill ‘essential’ To Curb A.I.D.S. (Press, 6 July 1985)

Dr. Paul Goldwater, an Auckland virologist, has announced that the passage of the Homosexual Law Reform Bill is crucial for the fight against A.I.D.S., stating that any modifications to the bill would hinder efforts to contain the disease. He emphasised that cooperation from individuals affected by A.I.D.S. is vital, but under the current legal framework, such cooperation is unlikely to happen. He warned that the treatment of these individuals as criminals would lead to further criminal behaviour. During a press conference held by the A.I.D.S. Support Network, Mr. Tony Hughes, a researcher with the network, highlighted that opponents of the bill had been misrepresenting A.I.D.S. as a homosexual issue, which has caused misinformation in the public sphere. He expressed concerns that public understanding of the disease appears to have worsened over the past year, with many claims being unfounded. The network, which is chaired by Ms. Kate Leslie, plans to initiate a $340,000 national publicity campaign aimed at spreading awareness about A.I.D.S. The campaign will involve sending a leaflet containing information about the disease to every household, along with a coupon for individuals to request further information. Leslie stated that public concern typically revolves around personal risks and the transmission of the virus, stressing the need for people to be informed about potential exposure and preventive measures. Dr. Goldwater warned that if the Homosexual Law Reform Bill is not passed, it could exacerbate criminal behaviour and lead to more individuals, particularly homosexuals, hiding their relationships. This would complicate the ability of bisexual men and others to seek help and prevent the spread of the disease. The campaign is expected to target all sexually promiscuous individuals, not just homosexuals, underscoring that everyone is at risk of A.I.D.S. Ms. Leslie pointed out that lifestyle changes and increased awareness of sexual practices are necessary for combating the disease effectively, which the network aims to facilitate by reducing anxiety around these changes. Financing for the initial $60,000 stage of the campaign will come from a $100,000 grant provided by the Government earlier in 1985. The campaign will begin in approximately two weeks, with advertising in newspapers and on radio, and the network is set to approach the Health Department to fund the television advertisements and leaflet distribution from an allocated $2.9 million for initiatives related to blood safety, counselling, and disease awareness. Leslie noted the Health Department's supportive attitude and expressed hope that this cooperation will lead to financial backing for the campaign, which she views as critical for raising serious public concern about A.I.D.S.

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