Law penalizing racist statements enacted in France since 2008, Justice
Minister says

May 5, 2011 – 15:40 AMT
PanARMENIAN.Net –

French Minister of Justice Michel Mercier said they remember all
provisions of the criminal legislation, which can be implemented. A
circular will be sent to all prosecutors this week, it will envisage a
punishment for insulting members of the Armenian community, Mercier
said after a French Senate sitting.

The French Senate on May 4 did not consider the resolution that if
passed would criminalize the denial of the Armenian Genocide in
France. With a vote 196 to 74, the senate blocked a formal debate on
the issue.

Mercier also noted that a law penalizing racist statements has been
enacted in France since 2008. `Provisions of the law were discussed
during a meeting between representatives of the Armenian community
with President Sarkozy. The government will not stay aside – the
Armenian Genocide is a recognized fact for us,’ AFP quoted Mercier as
saying.

From: A. Papazian