July 6, 2007
Weekly Trends in China/Politics | 2007/07/13 14:32
The newly approved Labor Contract Law will not undermine the investment environment although it will better protect workers' interests and rights. The Law Department at the All-China Federation of Trade Unions, denied that the law, which goes into force from January 1 next year, is biased toward employees. It not only protects workers' interests and rights, but also equally protects employers. For example, employers can sign noncompetition contracts with workers, with a noncompetition period of not more than two years to encourage innovation and ensure fair competition. It also softens the terms under which employers can cut staff if an enterprise switches to other production, adopts a major technological innovation or changes its mode of business.
The State Council on Tuesday started to solicit public opinions about a draft regulation aimed at reducing energy consumed by China's residential and public buildings. These rules were put forward by the central government last month and they are now set to be enshrined in a state regulation that is expected to be enforced more effectively through legal means. The regulation will promote energy efficiency and the use of renewable energy, such as solar energy, in the management of commercial or residential buildings, according to the draft. It also bans the use and import of energy-inefficient materials, techniques, and facilities. Departments concerned are required to publish regular catalogues detailing efficient techniques or prohibiting wasteful materials.
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