Page 1256 - Week 05 - Tuesday, 24 April 1990
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observed that she is, in this regard, out of step with the majority of the women's movement.
I do not claim to speak for women - that would be unreasonable - but many other women in this society, in connection with this debate, do speak for other women. As far as I can perceive, they generally oppose the continuing trade in X-rated videos and support in that respect some form of censorship.
It is very interesting that the polls which have been quoted and which I mentioned earlier showed a clear majority of women, not just in the ACT but also in Australia generally, supporting action to stop the trade in X-rated videos. Ms Follett does not speak, I believe, for most women in supporting the continuation of this shameful and degrading trade.
X-rated videos have no place, in my view, in a civilised society. That material negates the values that we, as human beings, hold dear; it negates the respect that we, as human beings, have built up over centuries for one another; it negates the precious intelligence that we, as human beings, have built up over centuries; it negates the advances that women have made over the past century at least to obtain an equal place with men in society; and, particularly, it negates the sense of decency which I believe all of us in this chamber have, at least in some small measure.
I want to conclude by saying that I see four grounds, which I have mentioned, for supporting the legislation. This Bill is likely to be defeated tonight - I am sensible enough to see which way the wind is blowing - but I do not concede that the battle is lost yet. It is very clear to me that the States will not backslide on their position. They have taken a position and they will stand by it - even the Labor States.
The pressure will remain on the ACT to conform with and support the decision made by Australians generally. In this chamber tonight I will support that decision of other Australians, and when the appropriate time comes later I will again support it.
Suspension of Standing and Temporary Orders
Motion (by Mr Collaery) agreed to:
That so much of the standing and temporary orders be suspended as would prevent private members' business having precedence of other business until the question that the Publications Control (Amendment) Bill 1990 be agreed to in principle is determined.
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