Letter to The Editor - not act before all reasonable concerns about children’s welfare, free speech and parental rights have been addressed

to THE AGE
     Andrew Bragg is unrealistic in imagining that ‘no’ voters in the postal survey will suddenly cease discussion of the issue if they lose (‘Fair, focused debate needed as survey ends’, 26/10). Deeply held convictions will not be surrendered because of a political defeat that many will believe was achieved by ensuring that the public as a whole was inadequately briefed on the issues involved.
     He is right to urge a continuation of ‘respectful debate’ and consideration for the opinions of ‘no’ supporters. That is not compatible with his call for the legislation of same-sex marriage by Christmas. For the sake of ethical integrity and national unity, the government, if ‘yes’ wins, should proceed slowly and carefully and not act before all reasonable concerns about children’s welfare, free speech and parental rights have been addressed.
     NJ, Belgrave, Vic