for leave to introduce Bill C-291, an act to amend the Criminal Code (prohibited sexual acts).
Mr. Speaker, it is my pleasure to introduce my private member's bill in the House today. The bill would amend the section of the Criminal Code dealing with prohibited sexual acts with children under the age of 14 or in the presence of children under the age 14.
If implemented the bill would raise the age of a child as defined for this purpose from the current age of 14 to 16. In effect, the bill would allow for criminal charges to be brought against any adult who engages in sexual relations with any person younger than age 16.
I urge all members of the House to seriously consider the bill's intent and purpose.
(Motions deemed adopted, bill read the first time and printed.)