www.stoptheabuse.org.nz

Friday, 29 October 2004

Prostitution question over half way to ballot paper

With over half the signatures needed and two more months now available, a referendum on the Prostitution Act can be achieved, says David Youngson, National Coordinator of StoptheAbuse.

Building on the momentum gained in the last few weeks, Mr Youngson is optimistic that the total required will be secured.

“140,000 people have already signed the petition indicating that the public want a say on this controversial law.

“New Zealanders want a chance to be heard on this issue because it was the most contentious conscience issue in several years and was passed by just one vote,” he says.

David Youngson says, that sadly many of the tragic consequences of legalising the prostitution trade are now being realised around the country.

“In no other business do the workers run the risk of contracting fatal diseases or becoming pregnant. And no other industry has a government review committee charged with looking at the means to avoid or cease work as a prostitute.”

“Worst of all, legalising prostitution has made it easier for vulnerable young girls to become entrapped in this inherently harmful trade,” says Mr Youngson.

To force a referendum 271,000 signatures are required, which would then ask every voter at the next election: Should the Prostitution Reform Act 2003 be repealed?

Mr Youngson says that while the vast majority of New Zealanders are willing to sign the petition he wants more volunteers to collect signatures to achieve the total as quickly as possible.

StoptheAbuse is a national campaign to support the referendum to repeal the Prostitution Reform Act. www.stoptheabuse.org.nz

ENDS

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