Part-timers frustrated at low status and lack of legal protection

Lin Zhengfan has worked as a software programmer in Shenzhen for the past 15 years. As she is self-employed, she can regulate her working hours and spend time with her daughter. But she is frustrated with the low status given to part-time workers.

'People always have this idea that I am not serious about my work. In fact, I work harder and am more committed to it,' she said.

Ms Lin, who is in her late 30s, has to pay for social welfare - including medical, unemployment and pension contributions - while her former colleagues and friends are covered by their employers.

China's Labour Law does not protect part-time workers. But the situation may change soon. The Liberation Daily reported Shanghai had announced plans for laws covering part-time workers this year and other cities were likely to follow suit.

The proposed regulations include legalising the status of part-time work, setting a minimum wage and coming up with procedures for social welfare, said the newspaper.

Some suggested the minimum wage for part-time workers should be set at four yuan (HK$3.80) an hour. Workers would receive two yuan and the other two yuan would be paid into an insurance scheme.