Liberal electorates should have voice heard on marriage equality

Submitted by Louise Sales on Thu, 18/08/2011 - 15:20

People living in Liberal electorates will have their voice silenced on the issue of marriage equality as a result of the Liberals practically ruling out a conscience vote on the issue, the Australian Greens have warned.

 "Today the Deputy Leader of the Opposition, Senator George Brandis, practically closed the door on allowing a conscience vote for Liberal members of Parliament," Greens' LGBTI spokesperson, Sen. Sarah Hanson-Young, said today.

"This is disappointing as the position on marriage equality should not be dictated by party politics and the voice of local communities should be heard.

"Those living in Liberal electorates should have the same say as other voters on this important reform. Marriage equality isn't a Labor, Liberal or Green issue - there is strong support for this across the political divide and in electorates right across the country.

"A poll conducted by Malcolm Turnbull in his seat of Wentworth found 72 per cent support for marriage equality and a poll conducted by Teresa Gambaro in Brisbane found 73 per cent support. Why should these communities be denied the right to have their voice heard?"

Senator Brandis reaffirmed his party's support for the stance taken by John Howard in 2004 on marriage in the Senate earlier today.