Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull has responded to reports that Opposition Leader Bill Shorten plans to recommend that the Labor Caucus vote against the proposed plebiscite legislation.
Speaking to Australian Financial Review, Mr Turnbull says without the public vote there will be no other option for marriage equality in the near future.
“If the Labor Party wants to frustrate that, well all that will mean is that the resolution of the same-sex marriage issue will be postponed potentially for a very long time,” the Prime Minister said.
The much-discussed bill was presented to the Lower House by Mr Turnbull himself yesterday, describing the government’s plan as “thoroughly democratic.”
“Every Australian will have their say, and if the Opposition support the plebiscite in the Senate, the plebiscite can be held on February 11, which is the soonest practicable date,” Turnbull said.
“We have to respect there are sincerely held views on this issue. They are views very often informed by deeply felt conscience, informed by religious commitment very often, informed by faith.”
Labor are not expected to reveal their official voting position for another three weeks, though many MPs have indicated their resistance to the plebiscite. Speaking to SKY News earlier this week, Shadow Transport Minister Anthony Albanese said they would assess the legislation but support is unlikely.
“We’ll wait and see the legislation before caucus meets and makes a determination, but I haven’t heard anyone arguing on the Labor side, or in my local community, that the idea of a plebiscite is a great idea.” Albanese said.
“I can see no reason why this as all issues should be singled out. I see that as discriminatory in itself. This is just a fix for the issues that were there inside the Coalition party room.”
OIP Staff
