MEDIA RELEASE

17 May 2000

GOVERNMENT PLANS TO ABOLISH CONCEPT OF MARRIAGE

New Zealand First MP, Hon Brian Donnelly, today said that the significant Government changes to the Matrimonial Property Bill essentially abolish the concept of marriage in our society.

“Not only has the Government changed the name of the Bill to the Property
(Relationships) Bill, it has also changed the language of matrimonial property legislation. No longer will there be spouses, wives and husbands, everyone will be a partner.

“It concerns us that the institution of marriage is reduced to a partnership relationship. Matrimonial property becomes relationship property, and no longer will there be a matrimonial home.

“At the very time there is an increasing number of people entering into marriage, the Government plans to abolish this institution which is the very foundation of our society. New Zealand First will oppose these measures every step of the way,” concluded Mr Donnelly.

ENDS

© Scoop Media