From May 24-28, National Assembly deputies discussed 7 draft laws, the Government’s report on the implementation of socio-economic development tasks and the spending of the State budget in 2009 and the first months of 2010 along with estimates of the State budget in 2008.

Most deputies approved the report, agreeing that in 2009 and the first months of 2010, the whole country continued exerting great efforts to overcome difficulties and challenges in order to stabilise macroeconomy and control inflation, resulting quite in a high economic growth rate, ensuring social welfare and order, defence, and security, strengthening the great national unity bloc and improving the status of the nation on the international arena. The people trust in the Party’s leadership and the State’s management.

They also said that despite significant achievements, the country’s economy still faces obstacles. Market management and prevention of sharp price increases in essential commodities are limited. The constantly rising prices of electricity and petroleum badly affect production and trading as well as citizens’ daily lives. The deputies proposed that the Government continue to devise effective measures to contain inflation and stabilise prices, especially those of essential commodities, and direct banks to employ suitable mechanisms to help businesses gain easier access loans for boosting production.

Another important issue that the NA has discussed during the week is a draft law on child adoption. Before the opening of the 7th session of the 12th NA, its Law Committee held a working session with international organisations in Vietnam and 9 embassies of countries with which Vietnam has signed the Child Adoption Agreement to solicit opinions. They discussed adoption fees and regulations to ensure openness and transparency to avoid negative outcomes.

There were different opinions on the adoption of children from border areas as it relates to nations, religions, and the customs of ethnic minority peoples, and especially the implementation of policies and laws on population. Therefore, the Government must stipulate strict regulations, based on the Law on Child Adoption and the real situation, to resolve issues relating to child adoption between Vietnamese citizens and neighbouring countries.

Regarding a draft law on enforcement of criminal sentences, most deputies agreed with adjustments to the draft law. They also agreed with the NA Stand Committee’s proposal on capital punishment by lethal ejection. Some proposed firing squads, others advocated both methods.

Many deputies did not agree with the inclusion of house owners in the list of  tax payers because they are private property which is closely connected with citizens’ long-term savings. The State is encouraging and issuing many policies to develop houses for citizens. Many deputies proposed that if the land tax is applied within five years it will create stability in citizens’ financial duties and favourable conditions for businesses and organisations to devise their development strategies.

Regarding a draft law on the disabled, most agreed with policies that not only care for those with disabilities but also remove obstacles for them and improve awareness among society and families in encouraging them to integrate into the society. They proposed the Government urge State and non-State organisations to care and generate jobs for disabled people.

Most deputies said that the report on estimates of the State budget in 2008 reflected the real financial situation, closely following NA resolutions and obeying the regulations of the State Budget Law. Despite fluctuations in the economy in 2008, the ministries, departments and provinces better implemented accounting and estimates of the State budget in 2008. Management of the State budget in 2008 has been improved, contributing to successfully controlling inflation, preventing economic recession, stabilizing the macroeconomy and ensuring social welfare.

Source: VOV