Dialogue 11/09/08 Marriage law interpretations ignite debate

New interpretations for China's Marriage Law by China's Supreme Court came into effect in August. The new interpretations stipulate that property bought before marriage, either outright or on mortgage, reverted to the buyer on divorce. Previously, the family home had been considered joint property. That means women out of a broken marriage are going to be deprived of homes, because the cultural tradition of the country means men usually provide the house for the couple while women shoulder more household responsiblities. Are the new interpretations sexist toward women? Or are they intended steps to make marriages more about true love and virtue and less about property? Are the roles of men and women in marriage going to change as a result? Will the new interpretations survive huge social pressure? Joining us in studio to answer these questions are Luka Lu, Partner, Capital Associates and Einar Tangen, Biz Times columnist and author. But before we start the interview, let's take a look at this background report.