China adopts intelligence law

China's top legislature on Tuesday adopted a law on intelligence to safeguard national security and interests.

The National Intelligence Law was approved at the end of a bi-monthly session of the National People's Congress (NPC) Standing Committee which concluded on Tuesday afternoon.

The 32 articles cover the general provisions, organization and duty of the intelligence authorities, and punishments for misconduct.

The law requires intelligence agencies and their staff to safeguard human rights and to protect the legal rights and interests of individuals and organizations.

Those who leak state secrets, commercial secrets or personal information will be held accountable.

The law provides legal support to the intelligence community, according to Zhang Dejiang, chairman of the NPC Standing Committee.

Zhang urged agencies to implement the law and carry out their duties in accordance with the law.

The law will enter into effect on Wednesday.