Homosexual sex is at last, legal in Hong Kong for those under the age of 21 . The High Court has ruled that the old rule, under which 16 was considered the age of consent for heterosexual intercourse, contravened Article 25 (Equality before the law etc).
Admittedly this isn't ordinarily that special - apart from it having been a long time coming. However there's comedy to be found on the books yet!
Previously, sexual intimacy between two men below the age of 21 was a criminal offence even though sexual intimacy between heterosexuals and lesbians is allowed after the age of 16.
Yup! Lesbian age of consent - 16, Gay age of consent - 21.
I'm trying to be outraged but I just find it too damn hilarious. The legislators clearly weren't big on the whole man-on-man action but gave a big thumbs up to two chicks getting it on. Misogynistic? Legco? Never! Please send all home videos of your 'personal exploration' in a stamped, addressed enveloped to James Tien.
More comedy is provided by Choi Chi-sum of the "Alliance for Family".
Choi warned that amending the law to make gay sex legal for those between the ages of 16 and 21 would encourage the activity.
Gosh Darn'it! Now it's legal I sure feel powerful encouraged to get me some of that new fangled man-lovin'! Hey Jimmy! You're looking mighty cute in them jeans!
I must however, note that the CFA is technically the highest court for constitutional matters. I say 'technically' because under a certain provision the Chief Executive may pass the decision up to the National People's Congress in China for their enlightened, expert opinions.
We'll see how the CFA rules. It should be a shoo-in. Andrew Li is a smart man.
Later
John
Posted by John Swaine at August 25, 2005 10:51 PM