Draft plans for regional, circuit courts approved

Reform proposals are seen as way to ensure justice, judicial independence

China's government group responsible for implementing reforms has approved draft plans to set up circuit courts and courts with jurisdiction across different regions in a move to further ensure judicial justice and independence.

The plans, approved on Tuesday by the seventh meeting of the Leading Group for Overall Reform, led by President Xi Jinping, will enable the Supreme People's Court to set up circuit courts that represent its authority, and permit the establishment of cross-regional courts and procuratorates, Xinhua News Agency reported.