French immigration minister Eric Besson has launched a three month debate on France's 'national identity'. A series of debates and public meetings will be held around the country in an attempt to discover what makes the French 'French' and controversially 'what immigration contributes to the national identity'.

Proposals will also be invited on actions that can be used to reinforce the national identity, the first proposal being from Besson himself suggests that school children should sing the French national anthem at least once a year.

Some politicians have attacked the campaign on the grounds of it being anti immigration and have warned that it could alienate a large portion of France's population.

A government website has been set up at http://www.debatidentitenationale.fr/ where as well as news on the campaign visitors can also contribute their own views.

What do you think it means to be French, do you consider yourself French and would you be happy to sing the national anthem once a year?

Quote this article on your site