THE HON MARK DREYFUS QC MP
SHADOW ATTORNEY-GENERAL
SHADOW MINISTER FOR THE ARTS
MEMBER FOR ISAACS
MEDIA RELEASE
SUPPORT FOR PRIDE MARCH BACKS CALL FOR CONSCIENCE VOTE
Shadow Attorney-General Mark Dreyfus QC has again called on the Prime Minister to give his MPs a conscience vote on marriage equality, following a strong turnout from Victorians in the Pride March today.
Shadow Attorney-General Mark Dreyfus QC has again called on the Prime Minister to give his MPs a conscience vote on marriage equality, following a strong turnout from Victorians in the Pride March today.
Mr Dreyfus participated in the march with representatives from Australian Marriage Equality, supporters and a range of prominent Victorians.
"The recent High Court ruling on the ACT's marriage equality legislation was clear, this is a matter for the national Parliament to decide," Mr Dreyfus said.
"The Prime Minister should allow his MPs a conscience vote on this issue, so that it can be debated in the national Parliament.
"While in government Labor is proud to have passed legislation to provide protection against discrimination based on sexual orientation, gender identity or intersex status.
"We also ensured that Commonwealth-funded aged care providers cannot discriminate against gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender and intersex Australians.
"Labor also revised rules so that Australians seeking to enter same-sex marriages overseas can apply for Certificates of No Impediment, which allows a couple to have their marriage recognised in that country."
Over six years Labor amended 85 Commonwealth laws to eliminate discrimination against same sex couples.
SUNDAY, 2 FEBRUARY 2014
