Federal MPs are debating the merits of same-sex marriage legislation, but it appears unlikely to go to a vote until later in the year. Labor MPs have been given a conscience vote on the legislation, but Coalition MPs are expected to follow the party’s position on the issue, which does not allow for any change to marriage laws.
There are currently two separate bills before the House of Representatives aimed at legalising same-sex marriage – one from Greens deputy leader Adam Bandt, and the other from Labor backbencher Stephen Jones.
Supporters of gay marriage are urging Opposition Leader Tony Abbott to give his MPs a free vote on the issue so they can vote according to their conscience. “I think it would be wise to avoid having the vote until such time as Tony Abbott decides to give his own members a conscience vote,” Greens leader Christine Milne said.
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