Decriminalising ‘gay’ Activity Seen As Help For... (Press, 4 September 1985)

A Parliamentary Select Committee on Homosexual Law Reform convened in Christchurch on 3 September 1985 to discuss the implications of decriminalising homosexual activity, particularly in the context of the AIDS epidemic. The A.I.D.S. Support Group from Christchurch expressed support for the proposed Homosexual Law Reform Bill, arguing that while it would not halt the spread of AIDS, its passage would enable better protection and education for those at risk who currently feel criminalised. They believed that individuals would be more likely to seek information and support if they were not viewed as criminals. In addition to the A.I.D.S. Support Group, the National Organisation of Women (NOW) supported the bill and advocated for an age of consent set at 16 years for both heterosexual and homosexual relationships. They highlighted the inconsistency of allowing heterosexual relationships that could lead to serious consequences, such as pregnancy, while prohibiting legal recognition of homosexual relationships at the same age. NOW argued that the current laws demeaned young men and perpetuated the view of women as second-class citizens. The New Zealand branch of the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists also submitted in favour of the bill, opposing the treatment of homosexuality as a disease and advocating for amending the Human Rights Commission Act to prevent discrimination based on sexual orientation. Several support organisations, including Gayline counselling service, the Christchurch Gay Task Force, and The Core, echoed support for the bill. Conversely, the proposed legislation faced strong opposition, primarily from religious groups. The Full Gospel Mission described the bill as "satanic," insisting that laws should align with Biblical teachings. The New Brighton Anglican Church and the Riccarton Methodist Parish also opposed the bill, claiming it posed a threat to youth and family values. The Hornby Presbyterian Church argued that homosexual behaviour was not only a result of genetic or environmental factors but rather a consciously chosen lifestyle. The Integrity Centre expressed a view that homosexuals aimed to undermine traditional values and moral structures in society. As the committee continues to gather feedback from various communities across New Zealand, they were scheduled to head to Auckland for further discussions. Alongside this significant political discourse, there was a memorial announcement for Mrs Elizabeth Grace Foster, one of Blenheim's oldest residents, who passed away at the age of 103 on 1 September 1985. A service was to be held at the Bursill Home in Blenheim in her honour.

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