China plans to set up a "buffer zone" around schools, ousting commercial entertainment facilities in a bid to better protect its teenagers.

 

"Commercial singing and dancing establishments, Internet cafes and other entertainment facilities unsuitable for minors, are prohibited around primary and middle schools," said a law amendment tabled to China's top legislature Sunday.

 

The draft, which was submitted to the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress for the third reading, requires owners of entertainment venues to post signs denying entrance of minors.

 

Adult entertainment facilities near the schools will be closed and those who violate the law will face administrative punishment, according to the draft amendment to the law on the protection of minors.

 

The amendment does not specify the punishments. The current administrative rule says Internet cafes that admit minors can be fined up to 15,000 yuan (US$1,900).

 

The draft also said government will encourage development of technologies to stop minors from becoming Internet addicts.

 

The new law comes amid increasing concern about an upsurge in juvenile delinquency. In 2005, more than 70 percent of the country's robbery cases were committed by juveniles.

 

In a bid to combat juvenile delinquency, China launched a nationwide campaign in 2004, called "For Tomorrow", aiming to enhance law awareness among young people and encourage them to be disciplined and law-abiding.

 

In July 2006, the Chinese government issued regulations concerning the environment around primary and middle schools, urging that illegal Internet bars and karaoke bars near schools be closed down.

 

(Xinhua News Agency December 25, 2006)