国内英语新闻:China mulls giving migrant population more equal rights

BEIJING, Dec. 4 (Xinhua) -- China's migrant population may get equal access to more public services formerly restricted to the locals, according to a draft document of the government.

Migrant citizens may apply for residence permits, which are linked with many rights, in cities after meeting certain requirements, such as having stable job and stable residence in a certain city and having stayed there for more than six months.

Residence permit holders may enjoy many basic public services as locals, including free compulsory education, employment support, old-age care, and social welfare, said the draft of measures on the management of residence permits.

The Legislative Affairs Office of the State Council released the draft Thursday to solicit public opinion.