Liberal MP Warren Entsch has initiated discussion on marriage equality in the party room this morning. Prime Minister Tony Abbott has previously made it known he did not want to debate marriage in the party room, with this morning’s meeting intended to focus on climate change policy.
The bill already has cross-party support from Labor, Greens and Independent parliamentarians, though it is still uncertain whether the Liberal party have been allowed a conscience vote on Mr Entsch’s bill. Without a free vote, members are bound by party policy to vote against changes to the Marriage Act.
According to Australian Financial Review, Mr Entsch plans to submit the bill today to the committee which decides which private members bills will be up for debate in the House of Representatives. The Liberal heavy committee must approve the bill before it reaches the lower house.
Many Coalition MP’s including Queensland’s George Christensen believe the decision should be left to a plebiscite.
“Marriage is a cultural institution – the Australian people determine the Australian culture,” Mr Christensen said.
Proponents of marriage equality are concerned that a plebiscite will delay debate further, as it does not bind the government to act on its findings. Opposition Leader Bill Shorten believes the government are trying to “kill off a respectful debate on marriage equality.”
OIP Staff
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