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Insight '85 discusses the Homosexual Law Reform Bill.
On March 08 1985, the M.P. for Wellington Central Fran Wilde, introduced the Homosexual Law Reform Bill to Parliament, and M.P.s have voted to advance it to Select Committee.
Excerpt from debate in the House by unidentified speakers opposed to the Bill. Four M.P.s have organised to oppose the Bill.
The Bill is in two parts, which are explained.
Geoff Braybrooke, M.P. for Napier explains his opposition to the Bill, saying it would to lead to gay marriage and adoption of children by gay couples.
Fran Wilde says public opinion is in favour of the Bill and she believes parliamentary opposition will be a "nine-day wonder."
Colonel Campbell of the Salvation Army talks about the Biblical basis for the church's opposition to the Bill.
Some M.P.s support law reform but think the age of consent should be 20 rather than 16.
John McDavitt from the Gay Task Force says every gay group is committed to the Bill as it stands with age of consent at 16. Fran Wilde agrees.
Alison Laurie, lesbian coordinator for the Gay Task Force comments on the debate about age of consent.
Council for Civil Liberties chairman John Lee explains why they support the Bill.
Colonel Campbell says the Salvation Army fears it would be forced to employ homosexuals if the Bill becomes law.
Geoff Braybrooke says he would try to force a referendum if the Bill becomes law.
Comment on this by Fran Wilde and John McDavitt.