PRESS RELEASE
The Government today published a discussion document entitled "Homosexual Offences: Should the Law be Changed? A Consultation Paper".
The paper follows on from recommendations by the Law Reform Commission in 1983 that the law governing homosexual offences should be reformed.
The consultation paper explains the current law which provides a penalty of up to life imprisonment for homosexual acts and sets out the arguments for and against change.
Topics discussed include the role of the criminal law, traditional values and the family, public behaviour, blackmail and human rights.
The paper examines in turn three possible options
Option 1:
Option 2:
No change to the present law;
Removal of the criminal penalties for homosexual acts in private between consenting adults; and
Option 3:
Reduction of the penalties for
homosexual acts in private between consenting adults.
If public response indicates that criminal penalties should be removed, the consultation paper suggests additional amendments to the law which would ensure that young men are fully protected from sexual abuse and exploitation.
Copies of the consultation paper, in English and Chinese, are available in District Offices. Members of the public are invited to submit their views before September 30 1988 either to City and New Territories Administration Headquarters, 12th Floor, World Shipping Centre, 7 Canton Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, or to their District Office.
Note to editors:
Copies of the discussion document will be boxed today.
No comments yet.
Private notes are available after approval.