China reviews draft laws to fight terrorism and espionage

China's legislature is reviewing drafts of its first counterterrorism law and a revamped counter-espionage law in the wake of growing risks to national security at home and abroad.

The two drafts were submitted yesterday to the National People's Congress Standing Committee for deliberation at the start of its session, Xinhua reported.

The move follows a Communist Party pledge at its fourth plenum last week to safeguard national security. It comes amid rising concern over violent attacks by Uygurs in the restive Xinjiang region, which Beijing has branded as separatist activity but Uygur groups attribute to resentment at Beijing's ethnic policies.

Under the draft counterterrorism law, an intelligence centre would be set up as well as an information-sharing system across government departments. It would include measures involving the management of internet security and the transport of dangerous materials, as well as strengthening border controls.

"China needs to enact a law against terrorism in the face of the current complicated battle against terrorism in order to improve China's anti-terrorism legal system," Xinhua said.