Mr O’flynn To Seek ‘gay’ Amendment (Press, 6 March 1986)
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Summary: Mr O’flynn To Seek ‘gay’ Amendment (Press, 6 March 1986)
On 5 March 1986, Defence Minister Mr O’Flynn announced plans to amend the Homosexual Law Reform Bill, aiming to exempt the military from potential changes in the law that would decriminalise homosexuality. Under Mr O’Flynn's proposed amendments, homosexuality would remain an offence within the military under the Armed Forces Discipline Act of 1971, which penalises "disgraceful and indecent behaviour" with a maximum sentence of three years imprisonment for offenders. Additionally, the Minister indicated that he might propose allowing discrimination against homosexuals in the recruitment processes of various services, including the military, police, traffic officers, and prison services. This move would be contingent on the passage of clause nine of the main bill, which seeks to amend the Human Rights Commission Act, making it unlawful to discriminate against individuals based on their sexuality.
Mr O’Flynn's plans follow similar proposals made last year by MP Mr Geoff Braybrooke, who holds a starkly opposing stance regarding the legalisation of homosexuality. While Braybrooke is vehemently opposed to the reform, Mr O’Flynn supports it, arguing that as a Minister, he must fulfil his obligations to his department despite his personal views. The debate over the bill has also attracted the interest of several other MPs, with differing opinions on key aspects of the legislation.
Notably, Mr George Gair and Dr Bill Sutton have both expressed a desire to increase the age of consent from 16 to 18 years. Meanwhile, Mr Phillip Burdon and Minister of Labour Mr Rodger advocate for an even higher age of consent, proposing a rise to 20 years. The discussions around these amendments reflect a broader societal debate about homosexuality and rights in New Zealand during this period, as the country grapples with issues of discrimination, legal rights, and societal norms.
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