THE appearance of greater openness and government accountability in China will inevitably be treated with a degree of scepticism. Nevertheless, the latest attempts by members of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) to increase its powers of supervision over the Government deserve recognition. While proponents' comparisons with a Westminster-style upper house are premature, the transition from a talking-shop to a body with the right to scrutinise and criticise is a genuine constitutional innovation.
The recent readiness of the National People's Congress to query, and even reject, Government proposals has already been welcomed as a sign of change - however hesitant - within the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). The willingness of senior officials and even politburo members to come and account for themselves before the CPPCC does appear to confirm that trend.
These moves do not portend the sudden surrender of power by the CCP. On the contrary, the change of style seems to underscore the leadership's self-confidence.
Experience of previous moves towards liberalisation has taught the Chinese people not to let too many flowers bloom at once at the first sign of Spring. But only the most diehard leftist would be dismayed if the party were prepared to listen, explain itself and even accept criticism from those it promotes as the representatives of the people.
