Advocates have called on Prime Minister, Tony Abbott, to allow a conscience vote on marriage equality following his decision to allow one on voluntary euthanasia.
Australian Marriage Equality national director, Rodney Croome, said it would be inconsistent for Mr Abbott to allow a conscience vote on one issue but not the other.
“Now that Mr Abbott has given a free vote on dying with dignity he should also give one on same-sex partners living with dignity”, Mr Croome said.
“Mr Abbott has acted compassionately and in accordance with Liberal Party principles by allowing a euthanasia conscience vote.”
“It would be inconsistent for him not to extend his compassion and principles to marriage equality.”
Mr Croome said the Liberal Party has previously allowed a conscience vote on a wide range of issues including most matters related to same-sex relationships, and to marriage and family law.
Australian couple Shirleene Robinson and Sarah Midgley recently married in the Sydney UK consulate. The video of their wedding is an excellent example of what same-sex couples “living with dignity” will look like. It can be found here: http://vimeo.com/114857926
For more information contact Rodney Croome on 0409 010 668.
Author: Rodney Croome
Publication: AME Media release
Date: 20 December 2014