Advocates renew call for free vote.

Marriage equality advocates say the proposed introduction of a cross-party marriage equality bill next Monday will be a historic moment, and have renewed their call on the government party room to allow a free vote on the bill.

Marriage equality advocates say the proposed introduction of a cross-party marriage equality bill next Monday will be a historic moment, and have renewed their call on the government party room to allow a free vote on the bill.

In today’s government party room the issue was raised and then referred to a further meeting, despite reported resistance from Tony Abbott to any discussion. Meanwhile, Warren Entsch has said notice will be given for the bill today and it will be introduced next Monday.

Australian Marriage Equality national director, Rodney Croome, said,

“The introduction of the cross-party bill next Monday will be a historic moment with MPs from across the political spectrum coming together to achieve marriage equality.”

“We praise Warren Entsch for continuing to move marriage equality forward and are pleased with the apparent intention from the Government to discuss a free vote.”

“We renew our call on the government party room to allow a free vote on the cross-party bill so MPs who support the reform can vote for it.”

“Australia’s want this issue dealt with as soon as possible.”

Mr Croome said a poll commissioned by the anti-marriage equality group, the Marriage Alliance, showed almost 60% of Australians believe marriage equality is a medium to high priority that is as important as agriculture, taxation and asylum seekers.

“The poll shows marriage equality is important to a majority of Australians and sends a clear message to the Government that it should act soon.”

“We would welcome marriage equality receiving as much attention from the Government as agriculture, tax or asylum seekers.”

For more information contact Rodney Croome on 0409 010 668.

Author: Rodney Croome
Publication: AME Media Release
Date: 11 August 2015