Incoming WA Liberal Senator says he would ignore plebiscite result

The Western Australian Liberal due to replace outgoing Senator Chris Back has said he would vote against marriage equality in parliament, despite whatever result a plebiscite may yield.

Slade Brockman, former chief of staff to Finance Minister Matias Cormann, was endorsed by the Liberal party’s state council over the weekend, and is likely to be ratified by state parliament next month.

Speaking to The West, Mr Brockman says he would not be bound by the result of a national plebiscite on the issue of marriage equality.

“I think it’s very important that people do get the opportunity to vote with their conscience following a plebiscite,” he said.

Mr Brockman will be stepping in to replace Senator Chris Back, who is retiring from parliament. After eight years, Senator Back says he is no longer in a position to continue his commitment to the voters and meet obligations to his family.

OIP Staff