The Standing Committee of the National People's Congress is meeting in Beijing. Legislators will consider amending the Election Law for the first time, and discuss five other drafts and amendments. The amendment to the Election Law is expected to grant equal election rights to people in both rural and urban areas.

The session is also considering the Draft law on Oil and Natural Gas Pipeline Protection for the first time.

The Amendment to the State Compensation Law will be discussed for the second time.

Hong Hu, vice chairman of NPC Standing Commmitee Law Committee, said, "We suggest the content, where the institutions with accountability for compensation should implement the compensation as soon as possible. The rule of law should be enhanced."

The Draft Law on Tort Liability has been read three times. The Members will continue discussions, focusing on equal compensation for the people killed in one accident.

Previous suggestions on the compensation for damages to name, reputation, image, and privacy will now be considered. Draft Laws on Diplomatic Agents and Island Protection are also on the agenda.

(CCTV October 28, 2009)