國歌法草案(guógēfǎcǎoàn): Draft law on the national anthem

The draft law on the national anthem was submitted to the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress, China's top legislative body, for its first reading on Thursday.

The draft aims to improve people's respect for the national anthem and regulate how to play it.

The draft clarifies seven situations when the national anthem should be played, including the opening and closing ceremony of the National People's Congress, as well as important sport and diplomatic events.

The draft prohibits the playing of the national anthem in advertisements, as background music played in public places and at private funerals.

In addition, people who disrespect the national anthem or intentionally distort the song by maliciously changing the lyrics will face up to 15 days detention.

The draft also says the official version of the national anthem should be posted on the website of the State Council, China's Cabinet.

China's national anthem, the March of the Volunteers, was composed by Nie Er in 1935, with lyrics by Tian Han. It was named as the national anthem in 1949 when the People's Republic of China was founded.