NT: Aboriginal backlash over laws outlawing child brides

AAP General News (Australia)
12-10-2003
NT: Aboriginal backlash over laws outlawing child brides

Aborigines are threatening a backlash against the Northern Territory Labor government
at the next election, after a decision to outlaw sex in traditional marriages involving
child brides.

Prominent Aboriginal leader GALARRWUY YUNUPINGU is warning that unless the government
changes the laws, Aborigines could back the conservative Country Liberal Party at the
next poll.

The government last month passed laws making it illegal for Aborigines involved in
traditional marriages with child brides to consummate the union until the child is 16.

CLP Leader TERRY MILLS says the CLP will consider revoking the laws if the party wins power.

Mr YUNUPINGU says to equate traditional marriage with child sex abuse is deeply offensive.

He will meet with NT Chief Minister CLARE MARTIN late today.

But NT Attorney General PETER TOYNE has defended the laws, saying they're a matter of principal.

AAP RTV km/lma/rp

KEYWORD: CUSTOMARY (DARWIN)

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