Reform Bill Opposed (Press, 27 July 1985)
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Summary: Reform Bill Opposed (Press, 27 July 1985)
On 27 July 1985, the Country Women’s Institute (C.W.I.) held its annual meeting in Dunedin, where significant opposition to the Homosexual Law Reform Bill emerged. The bill, currently before Parliament, seeks to decriminalise male homosexuality, which is illegal under existing law. During the meeting, a remit was presented stating that members opposed the Homosexual Law Reform Bill. The vote on this remit showed overwhelming disapproval of the proposed changes, with 378 voting against the bill, 80 in favour, and 48 abstaining. The decision was made to open voting to the floor after concerns were raised by some of the 55 official delegates — who are presidents of various C.W.I. federations across New Zealand — regarding their representation of membership opinions that varied on the subject. To ensure a more inclusive process, the vote was changed to a personal one, allowing all members present to participate. Additionally, another remit proposed that if male homosexuality were to be decriminalised, the age of consent should be amended from the proposed 16 years to 20 years. This motion also garnered support and was passed during the meeting. The outcomes of this gathering reflect a clear stance by the C.W.I. members against the reform of homosexual laws as they currently stand.
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