Marriage equality advocates have urged Government members who have concerns about a plebiscite to join Liberal Senator, Dean Smith, in raising their concerns.
The call comes after Senator Smith said he will raise his concerns when the issue is discussed in the Liberal Party room.
Australian Marriage Equality national director, Rodney Croome, said,
“I know there are more Liberals and National MPs who have concerns about the cost and divisiveness of a plebiscite.”
“Now is the time for them to get behind Senator Smith and voice their concerns.”
Senator Smith told ABC radio he is concerned about the precedent a plebiscite would set.
“I’m uncomfortable with the cost, secondly I’m uncomfortable with us too readily abrogating the foundational principle of parliamentary sovereignty.”
“Once we set a precedent on this issue, how do we argue that we shouldn’t have a plebiscite on other issues, for example sending men and women off to armed conflict overseas. How do we argue that we don’t have a plebiscite on euthanasia?”
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For more information contact Rodney Croome on 0409 010 668.
Author: Rodney Croome
Publication: AME Media Release
Date: 8 March 2015