Labor MP Terri Butler says she will attempt to force a free vote in Parliament on marriage equality this week.
Ms Butler is one of the original co-sponsors of a bill to equalise Australian marriage law, confirming her support along with Coalition MP Warren Entsch and others many months ago.
The Prime Minister intends to go forward with the national plebiscite proposed by his predecessor Tony Abbott, despite some conservative Coalition backbenchers admitting they would not vote ‘yes’ despite the result of the plebiscite.
“I call on Malcolm Turnbull to show some leadership and allow his members and senators a free vote on marriage equality,” Ms Butler said.
“If Malcolm Turnbull won’t act, I will. I’ll move a motion to allow a free vote on marriage equality in parliament this week.
Ms Butler says LGBTI Australians and their families should not have to wait any longer to have the same rights as every other person in this country.
“A number of members and senators have made it clear that they don’t consider themselves bound by the outcome of Mr Turnbull’s proposed plebiscite. So it’s a waste of time and $160 million.”
Previously, Coalition MPs were bound to vote with the party line against changes to the Marriage Act – though many vowed to cross the floor should the vote go to Parliament. It is currently unknown where the party stands on this as the focus has been on a plebiscite, not a Parliamentary vote.
OIP Staff
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