Politics
Thursday May 27, 2004
New Australian Legislation to Prohibit Homosexual 'Marriage'
We're protecting the most important institution in our society," Howard told reporters
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CANBERRA, May 27, 2004 (LifeSiteNews.com) - Australian Prime Minister John Howard announced today a decision to prohibit homosexual marriage, as well as overseas adoptions by same-sex couples. The move is to ensure that same-sex couples getting "married" overseas will not be allowed to use the courts to win recognition of their unions at home.
By protecting the definition of marriage as solely between a man and a woman, "We're protecting the most important institution in our society," Howard told reporters, as reported by Australia's The Age. "It is something that ought to be expressed through the elected representatives of the country and that is what we have decided to do."
He said the move was designed to prevent gay couples 'marrying' overseas, then seeking court rulings in Australia on the status of the 'marriage'. "The definition of a marriage ... should rest in the hands ultimately of the parliament of the nation and should not, over time, potentially be subject to redefinition or change by courts," he said.
Howard said that, although the federal government can not regulate the adoption policy of individual states, it can limit the ability of same-sex couples to adoption children from overseas.
The opposition Labor party said they would not oppose the move, eliminating the potential for debate before the upcoming Australian national elections.
While outlawing same-sex "marriages," Howard at the same time announced a plan to improve death and pension benefits for dependents. The move would improve the issuing of death and pension benefits to any financially dependent person, whether they be a same-sex partner, a sibling, or a child.
Read related LifeSiteNews.com coverage:
Australian Prime Minister to Move Against Gay Adoption Laws
http://www.lifesitenews.com/ldn/2004/mar/04030912.html
Australia PM Defends Traditional Marriage
http://www.lifesitenews.com/ldn/2003/aug/03080504.html
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