Proposal Would Bless Private Property

Millions of Chinese who have plunged into capitalism would be guaranteed the right to private property for the first time since the 1949 revolution under a constitutional amendment proposed by communist leaders.

The amendment submitted to the National People’s Congress would give official status to the entrepreneurs who now drive China’s economy.

In part the change is symbolic, bringing the constitution up to date with China’s market-oriented reality. But it will also probably strengthen the rule of law in a nation where many transactions are made without legal structure or regulation.