Nick Xenophon has announced that his party will block the same-sex marriage plebiscite proposed by the Liberal party.
In a statement released earlier today, the Nick Xenophon Team (NXT) stated: “We do not support [the marriage equality plebiscite proposal of the government].”
The party cited two main reasons for their stance, which were the cost involved – the vote is expected to run a bill of $160 million – and that the decision is one that “can and should” be made by the parliament, which would have the added benefit of being a free vote.
“In our representative democracy we are paid to make decisions on behalf of Australians who have voted us into office,” read the statement.
“This is a decision the parliament should make now.
“The [cost of the] plebiscite, which in any event could be disregarded by the parliament, could be in the order of $160m or more. We believe this money could be better spent.
“Each of us supports marriage equality and we are ready to vote accordingly,” they said.
Along with the NXT, the Greens and Derryn Hinch have all revealed their plans to block the plebiscite.
Despite Labor having yet to confirm its position, on Monday opposition leader Bill Shorten signalled that he would also block the move reports The Guardian Australia.
“Underpinning this debate, is that for children and families in same-sex relationships: why on earth should they be subjected to a vile, negative campaign about the quality of their parents’ relationship?” he said.
“Why should teenagers and young people determining their sexuality be forced to have to undergo a public campaign of vilification?” adding that the quickest resolution could be arrived at by a vote in parliament.