Advocates says it vital key stakeholders are consulted about the way forward on marriage equality following reports that Liberal MP, Warren Entsch, wants his Party to consider “an alternative course” to the current proposal of a plebiscite after the election.
Australian Marriage Equality national director, Rodney Croome, said,
“It is vital key stakeholders are involved in the path forward because this is about people not politics.”
“We would welcome marriage equality being reconsidered by the Liberal party room so MPs have the chance to weigh up the advantages of a cross-party free vote compared to an expensive plebiscite.”
“Our path forward, announced yesterday, is to ensure we have the numbers in parliament to get marriage equality through and that remains our priority.”
“Our preparations are also well advanced to campaign on, and win, a plebiscite if one is held.”
Marriage equality champion, Warren Entsch, has called for plebiscite legislation in order to provide greater certainty about a date and cost, and a clarification from Malcolm Turnbull about whether the outcome will be binding. This follows the declaration by new WA Liberal, Andrew Hastie, that, regardless of the national vote, he will only vote for marriage equality if his electorate votes ‘yes’ in a plebiscite.
Mr Entsch flagged the possibility that the Liberal Party room could consider “an alternative course” including opting for a free vote on the issue.
For more information contact Rodney Croome on 0409 010 668.
Author: Rodney Croome
Publication: AME Media Release
Date: 14 October 2015