FILE - In this Sept. 19, 2014, file photo, former Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott speaks during a press conference, in Sydney. Australia’s prime minister Friday urged restraint in the same-sex marriage debate after Abbott said he was head-butted by a gay rights advocate while walking in a city street. (Rick Rycroft, File/Associated Press)CANBERRA, Australia — Australia’s prime minister on Friday urged restraint in the nation’s same-sex marriage debate after his predecessor, Tony Abbott, said he was head-butted by a gay rights advocate and sustained a swollen lip. The altercation is one of several allegations of violence and vote-rigging that have marred an ongoing postal ballot on whether Australia should lift its prohibition on gay marriage. Most gay rights advocates had argued against a public vote for fear that it would lead to a bitter public debate.

Source: Washington Post September 22, 2017 02:09 UTC