Clive keeps views on gay marriage secret CLIVE Palmer says he'll never express his stance on gay marriage because he doesn't want to intimidate members of his party into adopting his view. Mr Palmer also criticised Prime Minister Kevin Rudd's decision to change his position on marriage equality when the mining magnate was quizzed on gay marriage in Brisbane on Tuesday. "If Mr Rudd was sincere on that issue that would have been his position for a long time," he told reporters. These sort of social issues - whether it's abortion, euthanasia, gay marriage - they really come to you at some stage in your life. Certainly during your twenties you should have formed that view. Mr Palmer said he would like to express his views on gay marriage but it would be irresponsible as it was his party's policy to allow a conscience vote. "For too long in this country leaders of parties have stated their position and have told members what they should do," he said. I would like to (state my position) but I can't because I'd intimidate our members when exercising their free conscience. Asked if it was safe to say he was a progressive man he said: "It's never safe to say anything about me." While Mr Palmer won't give members of his party advice on social issues, he says he will give them his opinions on other policy matters, including those relating to the economy. Earlier on Tuesday, rugby league great and Palmer party Senate candidate Glenn Lazarus said he would seek out the views of Mr Palmer if he secured a Senate spot. Mr Palmer said he would give advice if Mr Lazarus asked for it, but he planned to participate in the public debate rather than guide his candidates if any win a seat in parliament.