(CAT/C/SR.251, 252/Add.1 and 254), and has adopted the following conclusions and recommendations: 1. Introduction 139. The Committee welcomes the report of the Government of China as well as its core document (HRI/CORE/1/Add.21). The second periodic report of China dated 2 December 1995 was due on 2 November 1993. Since China had presented a supplementary report dated 8 October 1992, the timing of this report is quite satisfactory to the Committee. 140. The second periodic report of China follows the Committee’s guidelines and meets them satisfactorily. 141. The Committee also thanks the representative of the State party for his most enlightening verbal introduction to the report and for the way in which he and the other members of the Chinese delegation responded so constructively to the questions asked. 2. Positive aspects 142. The reforms contained in the amendments to the Criminal Procedure Law, to take effect in 1997, are an important step towards developing the rule of law in China and towards that country being able to meet its obligations pursuant to the Convention. 143. There are instances reported of police officials being prosecuted and convicted for acts of torture in China, including Tibet. 144. The various steps taken by the Ministry of Public Security pursuant to its notice of January 1992, so as to educate personnel on the prohibition of torture, are noted with satisfaction. 145. The provision of effective administrative and criminal compensation to victims of abuse is a most welcome development. 146. The Committee notes with pleasure the affirmation of the representative of China that "heads of cells and trusties" in prisons, as alleged by some non-governmental organizations, do not exist in China. 3. Factors and difficulties impeding the application of the provisions of the Convention 147. The Committee acknowledges the sheer size of the task confronting China in policing and administrating a huge land mass with 1.2 billion people at a time of economic and social reconstruction. 4. Subjects of concern 148. The Committee is concerned that according to information supplied by non-governmental organizations torture may be practised on a widespread basis in China. -23-