The view from the outside world

Peter Ho, professor of Chinese economy and development and co-director of the Modern East Asia Research Centre at Leiden University in the Netherlands

I think these new rules are particularly encouraging. In general, my impression is that the new leadership is trying to effect a new style of governance and it has already conveyed this message in various ways.

I greatly concur with the aim to set an example to change the style of governance from the top, yet, there are two caveats here.

First, organizational and policy change is by definition always a two-way communication, and it needs innovation and change from the grassroots, as well as from the top.

Second, change is a long-term process, and it will need a consistent and continued commitment from leaders at all levels to see this through.

It's more than just changing the rules, as it boils down to a change in culture.

Peter Ho was talking to Zhang Chunyan.

Rana Mitter, director-designate of the University of Oxford China Centre

If the new working rules and styles are implemented, then it will be a very welcome change in the style of leadership. If Chinese leaders adopt a low-key style then they will be better equipped to understand the problems of ordinary people.

I think Mr Xi and other officials are concerned that China's wider population needs to feel that the Party understands their concerns about a variety of issues: income inequality in society, the need for new policies on healthcare and pensions, and a greater ability to speak freely about key issues.

If the new leadership is seriously able to overcome the bureaucratic hierarchies and talk to China's people, then they will be able to find new ways to deal with these urgent issues.

Rana Mitter was talking to Zhang Chunyan.

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