Ballot challenged

Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull has ruled out any further action on same-sex marriage if the High Court strikes down the government’s national postal ballot. Work has begun on the A$122 million voluntary poll, with a result to be announced on November 15. A private member’s bill would then go to parliament. Marriage equality activists are launching a High Court bid to head off the ballot, saying it breaches the constitution, and funding the vote exceeds the government’s power. Asked what would happen if the court struck down the ballot, Turnbull said: ‘‘We will not facilitate the introduction of a private member’s bill on this matter unless the Australian people have given their support through a ‘yes’ vote through this national vote.’’