The body that rules on the constitutionality of French laws threw out an article in the new immigration measure that would have allowed the collection of data on ethnic origin in relation to French diversity. However, the Constitutional Council approved a controversial amendment allowing for DNA testing of immigrants’ offspring. The council ruled that the DNA tests, which are voluntary and meant to ensure authentic family ties, must be limited to establishing a direct link with the mother. The immigration bill bas passed by lawmakers on October 23rd, and will take effect once President Sarkozy signs and published it in the official register – expected sometime in the next few weeks.
