Today's Date:

FRANCE/SECULARISM/FRENCH MUSLIMS'PARTY

Interview given by Jean-Pierre Raffarin, Prime Minister, to the “Le journal du dimanche” newspaper (excerpts) .

THE PRIME MINISTER – We shall say clearly that any symbol conspicuously displaying religious affiliation in school is prohibited. This Bill will be preceded by a preamble calling for a conciliatory approach and an understanding of what is at stake. There's no ambiguity. The Stasi Commission listened and deliberated, President Chirac made his views known, the UMP [ Union pour un Mouvement Populaire ] conducted its own debate, the various representative bodies voiced their opinions and the government took its decision following receipt of the opinion of the Conseil d'Etat [supreme administrative court which also advises the government on legislation]. It's important to show that, while authorizing the demonstrations and promoting diversity of opinion, the Republic can't allow itself to be undermined from within. The Republic is open and tolerant but also knows how and when to be firm and make its values respected.

Q. – Some people will reproach you for violating the right of religious expression?

THE PRIME MINISTER – Let them be reassured, it has never been one of our intentions to ban religion in society, but solely to protect the national education system from any conspicuous display of religious affiliation. Secularism ( laïcité ) in France is a fundamental value, particularly in France's foremost Republican sanctuary, her schools, where every young person is learning about citizenship, universality and where he or she must benefit from the principles of equality and liberty, the neutrality of public services. Young girls must be particularly protected.

Q. – Does the adjective "conspicuous" seem to you better than "visible"? It allows some room for interpretation?

THE PRIME MINISTER – The adverb "conspicuously" is a choice for which I take full responsibility. Our vision of secularism isn't anti-religious, but is one of the State's neutrality and the spirit of tolerance. Prohibiting a visible religious sign, which isn't a manifestation of militancy, would look like a fight against religions. Our society needs hope, this is why I don't want any aggressive secularism. But the Republic has its rules and it must not tolerate any abuse of them. I tell fundamentalists that there is no question of them attacking our Republic's foundations. The Republic must defend itself and adopt the means to ensure it is respected, including at the level of the law. I am a believer, but I affirm that in public buildings the law of the Republic overrides religious rules.

Q. – Yet Cardinal Lustiger has recently spoken out against the Bill....

THE PRIME MINISTER – I have spoken several times to Cardinal Lustiger. He was worried by certain attitudes. I believe I have addressed his concerns and reassured him as to our intentions.

Q. – How many articles are there in the Bill to be presented to the Council of Ministers on Wednesday and debated at the National Assembly starting on 3 February?

THE PRIME MINISTER – Two articles, preceded by the preamble. But as soon as Parliament has passed the Bill, we shall consult our partners before sending out the circulaire d'application [decree specifying how a law should be enforced] which will allow the Act's implementation at the start of the new school year.

FRENCH MUSLIMS' PARTY

Q. – Are you in favour of banning the Parti des Musulmans de France after the anti-Jewish comments made by its leader, Mohamed Latrèche, at the demonstration on Saturday, 17 January in Paris?

THE PRIME MINISTER – I don't want anyone confusing things. There mustn't be any confusion. No signals must be sent intimating that the bill targets any specific religion. On the other hand, all racist, anti-Semitic and discriminatory behaviour and comments must be severely condemned. The Justice Minister has taken initiatives to this end and I approve of them. (...)./.