1 Aug 2005

DFAT warns gay sex illegal in Singapore

The Age

August 1, 2005 - 5:54PM

Australians travelling to Singapore are being warned they could go to jail if they are caught having gay sex.

In an updated travel advisory, the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) reminds Australians about the stringent laws in Singapore that can incur penalties that may sometimes appear harsh.

"Australians are reminded that when overseas, they are subject to local laws," the DFAT website says.

"Local laws and legal processes can be very different from those in Australia.

"A violation of local laws may result in a jail sentence, served in a local prison.

"Consular assistance cannot override local law, even where local laws may appear harsh or unjust by Australian standards."

In particular, the website warns that gay sexual acts are illegal in Singapore and can lead to jail.

"Homosexual acts are illegal in Singapore and penalties include imprisonment," the DFAT website says.


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