Bill seeks combat change

A bill which would amend human rights laws which can prevent women from serving in combat roles in the Defence Force is to be considered by a select committee.

In 2000, the Defence Force rescinded its policy preventing women from serving in combat roles, but the Human Rights Act allows the Defence Force to discriminate against women regarding their employment in active combat roles.

Introducing the Human Rights (Women in Armed Forces) Amendment bill last night, Labour Waitakere MP Lynne Pillay said the exemption was an anomaly and was at odds with Defence Force policy.