Five Votes Pass Homosexual Law Reform (Press, 10 July 1986)

On 9 July 1986, the New Zealand Parliament passed the Homosexual Law Reform Bill, which establishes the age of consent at 16, with a narrow vote of 49 in favour and 44 against. The public galleries were filled with supporters, who erupted in applause upon the announcement of the result, although some dissenters expressed their displeasure. Notably, an individual accused the House of promoting immorality, leading to interruptions during the session, including comments from Sir Robert Muldoon that added to the heated atmosphere.

The bill, sponsored by Labour MP Fran Wilde from Wellington Central, had been a contentious issue since its introduction 16 months earlier. It drew significant attention, evidenced by the fact that only one member, Jim McLay from the National Party, was absent for the vote, marking it as one of the fullest in New Zealand parliamentary history. Party lines largely shaped the vote outcome, though it was classified as a conscience issue. Among Labour members, only eight voted against the bill, while just three National MPs supported it.

In the lead-up to the vote, there had been more than 60 hours of debates in the House and 70 hours within select committees, with numerous amendments proposed—most of which aimed to increase the age of consent. The vote was further complicated by attempts from the opposing side to delay proceedings by having multiple speakers on the floor.

Despite the expected support from some members, the opposition was significant. For instance, Mr. George Gair, who had previously considered abstaining, ultimately voted in favour, albeit reluctantly. His comments about preferring a middle ground sparked criticism from anti-reform MPs who declared strong opposition to any notions of compromise. Norman Jones, a key opponent of the bill, warned that while the legislation had passed, efforts against it would continue, including plans for significant fundraising to lobby for repeal.

In the aftermath of the vote, Ms. Wilde expressed gratitude to those who supported the bill, especially those from marginal electorates who took political risks. While some in the LGBTQ+ community celebrated the bill's passage, others lamented the exclusion of provisions aiming to outlaw discrimination based on sexual orientation and raised concerns about exemptions for police and military personnel.

The vote was described as a pivotal moment in New Zealand's legislative history, with both supporters and opponents anticipating its broader implications for future political discourse and public opinion surrounding LGBTQ+ rights in the country.

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