Media Statement
For immediate release Monday, 24 May, 2004

Dunne: Govt again shows anti-family colours

By proposing that 12-year-olds having sex be legalised, the Government that has tried to bring lesbian dads and gay marriages has yet again shown that it has no respect for the New Zealand family and the real protection of our children, United Future leader Peter Dunne said today.

"This is total rubbish. There wouldn't be a parent in the land who wants their 12-year-old child having sex - or getting the message from the Government that it's ok," Mr Dunne said.

"Do young people have sex? Yes. Does the State need to sanction it? No!

"And that is what this kind of stupidity does. It inherently says, 'your parents might disapprove, but it's okay because the law says it okay'.

"You really do have to ask what agendas are being pursued here

"And what sort of mind-set it is that subverts the rights of parents to the extent of legalising an activity for minors that they would wish to at least guide their children through with some moral or protective framework.

"The last thing the parents of this country need is the State actively working against their raising of their kids.

"And again, what is the mind-set when this country with the third highest teen pregnancy rate in the developed world?" he asked.

"The law on sexual offending against children has always been premised on those under 16 being unable to offer emotionally and developmentally informed consent - and that has been recognised for their protection," he said.

"So what changed overnight just because certain elements in Labour now think it's a good idea?"

Ends.

© Scoop Media