China's first draft law on domestic violence reviewed

Victims of domestic violence would be able to apply to courts for protection and the courts would be required to hear such applications, under China's first draft law covering the issue.

The draft is receiving its first review by the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress.

It says courts could rule to protect the safety of the applicant, by prohibiting those named in the application from committing further violence or ordering them to move out of the applicant's home.