An Australian politician proposed to his partner during a debate on a bill which could soon legalise same-sex marriage in the country.
Tim Wilson, who is part of the ruling conservative coalition, was among the first to join today’s debate and used his speech to propose to his partner Ryan Bolger, who was watching from the public gallery.
“In my first speech I defined our bond by the ring that sits on both of our left hands,” an emotional Mr Wilson said. “There’s only one thing left to do: Ryan Patrick Bolger, will you marry me?”
The question drew cheers and applause from the House.
The 33-year-old primary school teacher responded: “yes,” which was recorded in the official parliamentary record.
Mr Wilson is believed to be the first MP to propose on the floor of the house.
He said the protracted national debate on same-sex marriage had been the “soundtrack” to their relationship.
Earlier, the MP spoke about his own experience growing up as a gay teenager and struggling with a stigma surrounding homosexuality.
“This bill rams a stake into the heart of that stigma and its legacy,” he said.
The major parties want the legislation passed this week after a majority of Australians endorsed the change in a postal ballot last month.
