GEORGINA BEYER (Labour-Wairarapa): I rise to make a brief contribution to the first reading of the Relationships (Statutory References) Bill. May I remark on the previous speaker's speech. I have a great deal of respect for the views that are shared by Larry Baldock, and I pay due heed to what he has to say. He thinks about matters from his perspective sensibly and clearly, and articulates them well. However, I do disagree with many of the points that he made.

In the first reading of the Civil Union Bill I mentioned the perpetuation of discrimination and prejudice that occurs, particularly in relation to the particular matters dealt with in the Civil Union Bill and the Relationships (Statutory References) Bill. We cannot continue that discrimination. Albeit that some may consider that those who will benefit the most are in the minority, that is no excuse to deny rights when they are sought. I am also quite often amused at the hysterical argument that is put out about the undermining of marriage, due to both the bills that I have referred to in this speech. I do not think the situation is as dire as some people would make out. Quite simply, I do not think this bill or the Civil Union Bill affect technically the powers of the Marriage Act. That Act, of course, currently holds the power of excluding people such as same-sex and de facto couples from being involved in marriage. The choice that I hear being talked about is, for some, no choice.

This bill will support the Civil Union Bill in rectifying the discriminations that occur under the Marriage Act towards de facto couples and same-sex couples. I certainly hope the House will support this bill being scrutinised by a select committee. That referral will appropriately be done at the end of this first reading, I hope.