The News

New Zealand Gay Marriage Bill Passes Reading

Created on Wednesday, 29 August 2012 11:21 Written by Robert Manser

The first reading of the New Zealand bill to enable equality for its homosexual citizens passed in a massive majority during its first reading just an hour ago.

The strong majority of 80 votes t o40 means it will almost certainly get safely through its remaining stages and become law.

The first reading debate was dominated by MPs supporting the bill. Of to 10 who spoke, only three opposed it, those putting forward arguments relating to the opposition of some Churches and the 'Marriage between a man and woman' statement.

NZ Labour's Louisa Wall (pictured), who drafted the bill, was congratulated by her colleagues after the vote and the packed public gallery erupted into applause. In scenes not seen since New York State passed marriage equality over a year ago.