Wednesday, 4 May 2005

Baldock: Bill will define marriage for man and woman

United Future's Larry Baldock said today that he was delighted to see his Member's Bill defining marriage as between a man and a woman, drawn from the parliamentary ballot.

"It is necessary, in the light of the Civil Union Act, to clarify once and for all that marriage is only between a man and a woman, and not between persons of the same sex," Mr Baldock said after the Marriage (Gender Clarification) Amendment Bill was drawn.

He said the Bill would also prevent overseas civil unions or gay marriages overseas being recognised in New Zealand.

"My Bill also paves the way for the Government to introduce policies that strengthen and support marriage in New Zealand because of its benefits, not only for couples and families, but for society as a whole.

"It, therefore, amends section 19 of the New Zealand Bill of Rights Act so that it can no longer be considered discriminatory to actively promote marriage - the foundation upon which our society is built," he said.

"As most proponents of the civil union legislation made it clear that they did not want to affect the distinction and sanctity of marriage, I look forward to support from a good majority of Members of this House to send this Bill to select committee."

ENDS

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