Premium Content:

Howard: laws must protect those tangentially affected by marriage equality

johnhowardFormer Prime Minister John Howard has made a series of comments about the potability of marriage equality being introduced into Australia and has said religious freedom needs to be protected.

Speaking to The Guardian the former Liberal leader said there must be protections for people who are affected in a tangential way.

- Advertisement -

“I do think one thing that has to be addressed is the question of proper protection of religious freedom, and freedom of conscience in relation to people who might in a tangential way be affected by this.” Howard said.

While the proposed changes to Australian’s marriage laws would see civil ceremonies being open to same sex couples, religious institutions would not be required to offer weddings to gay couples.

There has however been calls for ancillary wedding service providers to be excluded from the nation’s anti-discrimination laws. Conservative groups, including the Australian Christian Lobby, have argued that people of faith who provide services should be allowed to refuse services to gay couples.

If such a provision was written into any future legislation individuals and business who provide services like accommodation, catering, wedding invitations, bridal clothes or similar services would be able to turn gay people away on religious grounds.

Howard also reiterated that he was personally opposed to same sex marriages but believed most parliamentarians would respect the outcome of the proposed plebiscite should it be successful.

OIP Staff

 

 

Latest

At 20, Ari found himself one of many Australian youth experiencing homelessness

As the federal government looks at new ways of tackling homelessness, Ari shares his experiences.

Musician Ethel Cain issues an apology as historical racist posts surface

The singer took to Instagram to offer an apology and explanation.

G Flip shares more music from their upcoming album

'In Another Life' is the third single from 'Dream Ride' out this September.

Bangarra Dance Theatre bring their stunning ‘Illume’ to Perth

Illume is playing at the Health Ledger Theatre at the State Theatre Centre until 13th July before heading to the Albany Entertainment Centre on 18th July.

Newsletter

Don't miss

At 20, Ari found himself one of many Australian youth experiencing homelessness

As the federal government looks at new ways of tackling homelessness, Ari shares his experiences.

Musician Ethel Cain issues an apology as historical racist posts surface

The singer took to Instagram to offer an apology and explanation.

G Flip shares more music from their upcoming album

'In Another Life' is the third single from 'Dream Ride' out this September.

Bangarra Dance Theatre bring their stunning ‘Illume’ to Perth

Illume is playing at the Health Ledger Theatre at the State Theatre Centre until 13th July before heading to the Albany Entertainment Centre on 18th July.

On This Gay Day | Britain repealed the controversial 'Section 28' laws

The laws were brought in by the Thatcher government in 1988.

At 20, Ari found himself one of many Australian youth experiencing homelessness

As the federal government looks at new ways of tackling homelessness, Ari shares his experiences.

Musician Ethel Cain issues an apology as historical racist posts surface

The singer took to Instagram to offer an apology and explanation.

G Flip shares more music from their upcoming album

'In Another Life' is the third single from 'Dream Ride' out this September.