In this episode of Solid Ground, Simon starts with good news including news of a new hospice is Hawkes Bay, and an excellent op-ed around puberty blockers written by Deborah Chambers KC. He also discusses a recent US court case which saw a ban on sending abortion pills in the mail without talking to a doctor first, but notes the Supreme Court has just put a stay on that ruling. Simon shares footage of the Auckland Harbour Bridge swaying as protestors cross it, noting officials are highlighting the danger of such marches, but also expressing his suspicion that double standards will continue to apply – some protests will be permitted, others not. He also discusses the latest marriage rates data, suggesting that many social problems are likely explained by this dramatic decline.
