Change Sex Education Law-—plea (Press, 6 June 1988)
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Summary: Change Sex Education Law-—plea (Press, 6 June 1988)
Dr Max Abbott, the director of the Mental Health Foundation, advocated for legal changes that would permit the teaching of sex and contraception to individuals under the age of 16. In his remarks, made on 6 June 1988, he described the current law as ineffective and detrimental to health, labelling it "an ass and a health hazard." Dr Abbott voiced strong support for the Minister of Health’s call to reform this legislation, asserting that maintaining the status quo effectively condoned child sexual abuse. He highlighted findings from a recent Health Board report, which indicated that teenagers could face pregnancy, require termination of a pregnancy, or bear children while being legally barred from receiving necessary contraceptive information. This lack of access to information, he argued, exposed young individuals to unnecessary trauma and raised their risk of sexually transmitted infections, including AIDs. Dr Abbott acknowledged that not all adolescents are sexually active, yet he emphasised that contraception should still be easily available to those who are. The push for legal reforms has been a long-standing demand from health organisations and authorities. He articulated that a repeal of section 3 of the Contraception, Sterilisation and Abortion Act and parts of the Education Amendment Act of 1985 would be necessary to enable the education of young people about contraception and safe sex practices. In summary, Dr Abbott made a compelling case for legislative changes to safeguard the health and wellbeing of young New Zealanders by ensuring they have access to vital information regarding sexual health and contraception.
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