However, Minister of Civil Affairs Roland then briefly introduced the progress of drafting France's Child Protection Law.
The portions completed so far mainly included:
1. Abandoning children would constitute a crime—this was chiefly meant to punish parents who sent their children to orphanages.
2. The buying and selling of children was prohibited.
3. Parents had to ensure that children met the minimum school attendance requirement.
4. Inciting children to steal, beg, or take part in highly dangerous work was prohibited...
Given that children were generally not treated as people in Europe at present, this law was undoubtedly another enormous advance in human rights.
Once all the ministers had completed their reports, everyone in the conference hall wore expressions of excitement and pride.
Indeed, after winning this war, France had completely climbed out of the mire of more than a decade ago. Prosperity flourished in every respect.
Joseph promptly rose and first bowed to Queen Mary.
A flicker of worry and tension passed through her eyes, but she immediately smiled and nodded. "Please begin the announcement."
Charles's palms instantly grew sweaty. His mother had personally confirmed it—this had to be the announcement of his marriage, yet no one had even asked for his opinion beforehand!
He secretly made up his mind that if the name his brother read out was not Louise's, then even if he was rebuked, he would refuse on the spot.
Joseph turned around and called out solemnly to the several dozen people present:
"Gentlemen, today, a new era begins.
"For the eternal prosperity and order of France, for the future of the nation, under God's witness, His Majesty the King has signed an edict formally authorizing the establishment of the Senate and the House of Representatives, as well as the promulgation of the corresponding Civil Code.
"May