Advocates urge MPs to work for reform, not argue over process
Marriage equality advocates say they are disappointed by Bill Shorten’s opposition to a Labor binding vote on the issue and have urged marriage equality supporters in parliament to work for achieving the reform instead of arguing over process.
“It is disappointing that Bill Shorten doesn’t support a binding vote because that means he’s happy with a double standard that says Labor votes as one on all equality issues except marriage equality.”
“Given Mr Shorten’s view that it’s better to convince than force, we urge him to do more to convince the significant number of Labor MPs who continue to oppose marriage equality.”
“Australians are increasingly impatient about our country falling behind other developed nations on this issue.”
“That’s why we strongly urge marriage equality supporters in parliament to do all they can to get marriage equality through instead of arguing over which path to take.”
“The acriminony and recriminations we are seeing over binding votes and free votes risk becoming a distraction from why Australia needs marriage equality now.”
For more information contact Rodney Croome on 0409 010 668.
Author: Rodney Croome
Publication: AME Media Release
Date: 30 April 2015