Faced with the recent mobilization against incest after the shocking testimony of Camille Kouchner who freed the floor, the bill presented by the Socialist deputy Isabelle Santiago arrived at the right time.
The text strengthens the protection of minors against violence and sexual crimes, by setting the threshold for non-consent at 15 years, 18 years in the event of incest.
It was adopted Thursday at first reading in the National Assembly by 125 votes for and two abstentions.
Member of the National Child Protection Council since its creation, Isabelle Santiago wanted to send a "strong signal" by tabling a bill to strengthen the protection of minors who are victims of sexual violence.
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The Keeper of the Seals, Eric Dupond-Moretti ruled that "the liberation of the word of victims of sexual crimes, and in particular crimes of incest, in recent weeks, obliges us" to "no longer close our eyes", a- he declared during the debate this Thursday in the National Assembly.
However, "justice does not go on the internet or in the media, or in the street", underlined the Minister of Justice, pleading for "coherent coordinated solutions" to protect the victims "with respect for our State. by right ".
The government will present amendments
He confirmed the government's support for a Senate bill.
According to him, the text of the centrist Senator Annick Billon, already adopted at first reading by the upper house, guaranteed adoption within a "tight schedule".
He added that the government would present "very soon" amendments on the detailed measures it wants.
Despite the presence of two parliamentary initiatives, "on this subject, there can be no political competition" and "only the best interests of our children count", he concluded.
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The Secretary of State for Children and Families Adrien Taquet, for his part, underlined that future legislation "will impose a clear and unequivocal ban" in the face of sexual crimes against minors.
In addition to the repressive component, he recalled the government's commitment to an “ambitious approach to prevention and support for victims”, in particular through schools.
