Broadcaster Alan Jones has declared his opposition to the plebiscite on marriage equality. Speaking to his listeners this morning the 2GB host said the plebiscite would lead to angry, spiteful and divisive discussions.
“On same-sex marriage I am totally opposed to a plebiscite… It could be angry and spiteful and divisive, the last thing we need. Many Australians have suffered enough as a result of their sexuality.” Mr Jones said.
“I’ve said many times, love is an elusive thing. If people find it, they should be able to celebrate it. If that celebration manifests itself in same sex marriage, then the world is not going to fall in.” the broadcaster declared.
Mr Jones said the plebiscite plan would create more anguish for people over an issue of intense privacy, and argued that it was the responsibility of politicians to represent the wishes of the people who they represent.
The broadcaster revealed that back when Malcolm Turnbull was a Minister under former PM Tony Abbott he’d called Jones and reportedly said Abbott was wrong on the issue and it should be settled prior to an election.
Mr Jones said Mr Turnbull had lobbied him to speak to Mr Abbott about the issue. Mr Jones said he was not successful in changing Mr Abbott’s mind. Mr Jones said Mr Turnbull’s government was stuck in “rigor-mortis”.
Marriage equality advocates have welcomed Mr Jones comments. Australian Marriage Equality national director, Rodney Croome, said it was time for the Turbull government to drop the plan.
“We welcome Alan Jones opposition to an unnecessary, divisive and expensive plebiscite and call on the Turnbull Government to drop the policy.”
“There is majority support for marriage equality in parliament so we could resolve this issue next week if the Government simply allowed a free vote.” Mr Croome said.
