The problem with the ALP in its current crop of pollies, is that they are just not that bright. If this legislation gets through, the coalition could make the "offence" worm turn against the Left.
In general the right to offend critical to free speech. Any freedoms that citizens have have largely been hard won, and should not be given up, only in exceptional circumstances.
I want neither the coalition nor the ALP telling me who I can or cannot offend.
Reminds me of a few lines from Coleridge on the French Revolution:
The Sensual and the Dark rebel in vain, Slaves by their own compulsion! In mad game They burst their manacles and wear the name Of Freedom, graven on a heavier chain!
