Government should allow conscience vote on Medicare under 16 legislation - AMA
AMA President, Dr Bill Glasson, today called on the Government to allow a conscience vote this week on the Health Legislation Amendment (Parental Access To Information) Bill 2004 to let concerned Coalition members express their opposition to the Bill.
Dr Glasson said the legislation will create tensions within families and has the potential to cause irreparable harm to the health of many thousands of young Australians.
"All the advice from health professionals, youth health advocates, family planning organisations and even certain Government MPs is that this legislation is the wrong way to go," Dr Glasson said.
"But so far the Health Minister, Tony Abbott, and other senior Government figures have ignored the expert advice.
"I urge the Minister to listen to the doctors and others with experience in public health within the Government's own ranks before introducing this divisive backward-looking legislation.
"Better still, give Government MPs their say in the Parliament with a conscience vote.
"There is no grey area with this Bill. It is wrong - plain and simple.
"It is irresponsible to play politics with the physical and mental health of Australian kids.
"I urge the Government to do the right thing and withdraw this legislation.
"It puts families last, not first," Dr Glasson said.
CONTACT: John Flannery (02) 6270 5477 / (0419) 494 761