The Politburo controls three other important bodies and ensures the Party line is upheld Every significant decision affecting China's population is first discussed and approved by a handful of men who sit on the Party's political bureau (Politburo) 1. The Military Affairs Commission - controls the armed forces 2. The National People's Congress – Parliament 3. The State Council – ensures the party line is upheld

24 members of the Politburo Real power lies with its nine-member Standing Committee (inner cabinet) How the Standing Committee operates is secret and unclear

New Politburo members are chosen only after rigorous discussion and investigation of their backgrounds, experience and views To reach the top, people need 1.a strong record of achievement working for the Party 2.to have the right patrons 3.to have dodged controversy 4.to have avoided making powerful enemies

Members of the Standing Committee also share out the top posts e.g. Party General Secretary and Premier What does this tell us about the decision- making process in China?

In theory, the Congress has the power to change the constitution and make laws In reality, the CPC drafts most new legislation and passes it to the NPC for "consideration The Congress also "elects" the country's highest leaders Over 70% of the delegates and almost all of the senior figures are CPC members

HU JINTAO – President of China, General Secretary of the CPC and Supreme Commander of the armed forces WEN JIABAO – Premier of China

The CPC controls the entire political system and does not seek a mandate from the people The President is not competitively elected, he is selected The CPC oversees/controls the government, the courts and the army CPC will not tolerate any opposition

8 other parties do exist but do not aim to challenge CPC rule Experimentation with local democratic elections at village level e.g. Sichuan Province What does this tell us about the decision- making process in China?