Opposition Leader Daniel Andrews has come out strongly in support of same-sex marriage, a week after lord mayor Robert Doyle’s strong public support. Mr Andrews, who marches in the Pride March each year, said: “If you are for equality you have to be for it everywhere, you can’t pick and choose”
“If same-sex couples can get married it doesn’t in any way diminish my marriage; rather it would make me a member of an inclusive society that I could be proud of.”
Mr Andrew’s position contrasts with that of Labor Prime Minister Julia Gillard, who does not support same-sex marriage. Cr Doyle said the public response to his support for same-sex marriage had been extraordinary – the biggest response he has had on any issue as lord mayor. “I would say 98 per cent of the response to me has been very positive … I am quite touched by that” he said.
He said those in support included one his daughters, “who is very proud I have been able to say that openly and voice what lots of people are saying”.
:In 10 years’ time we will look back and say to ourselves, ‘What was that all about?'” he said.
The Liberal Party member for the state seat of Prahran, Clem Newton-Brown, said he supported same-sex marriage and he called on federal Liberal Party leader Tony Abbott to allow a conscience vote on the issue. “The Liberal Party is founded on ideals of freedom of choice and respect for the individual” he said. “I believe many Liberals would support a conscience vote, even if they did not necessarily support marriage equality.”
Publication: Herald Sun
Reporter: Jason Dowling
Date: 6 April 2013