CHINA'S top legislature, the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress (NPC), will begin discussing a legislative proposal on illegal religious activities during a seven-day session that begin on October 25.

At a meeting of the chairman and vice-chairmen of the NPC Standing Committee yesterday in Beijing, it was announced that the session will cover drafts of 12 laws. They include those that contradict the Basic Law of the Macao Special Administrative Region (SAR), amendments to the 1997 Criminal Code and laws on legislative power and procedures.

A draft of a Highway Law amendment proposed by the State Council, which failed to pass the legislature six months ago, will be deliberated again next Monday, according to a legislative session agenda adopted at yesterday's meeting.

The amendments are intended to pave the way for a fuel tax to replace various overlapping vehicle fees. The legislature will also discuss and decide on nominations for the Central Military Commission of the People's Republic of China.

According to NPC sources, the bill banning illegal religious activities is primarily aimed at dealing with the Falun Gong cult, which has spread to various parts of China and threatened social stability.

A draft of amendments to the Criminal Code that was adopted two years ago is intended to increase penalties on violations of the accountancy law and criminal behaviour in futures transactions.

(Xinhua 10/19/1999)