NEW ZEALAND PASSES CIVIL UNIONS BILL: From the New Zealand Herald

The Civil Unions Bill has been passed by Parliament.

From April 26 next year couples can commit themselves to the new civil union. Parliament voted 65-55 to pass the controversial legislation which has polarised opinion and split political parties. During the last three days MPs opposed to it fought to change the Civil Union Bill and to force a referendum on it. They failed, and today the majority on the third reading was the same as it has been through most of the legislative process.

The bill also applies to heterosexual couples, but it does not change the Marriage Act which still applies only to men and women.

After MPs cast their conscience votes and the final count was announced, the debating chamber was drowned in applause from the public galleries. MPs embraced, cheered and congratulated each other while Destiny Church leader Brian Tamaki and his followers glowered down. Outside Parliament rival rallies attracted about 400 people, with opponents slightly outnumbering supporters. While the bill's backers played music and threw orange balloons, opponents stood in silent protest.

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posted by Eve at 3:21 AM VOTE

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