whereby sentences were confirmed by the Supreme Court, or by the higher people's court on the authorization of the Supreme Court. Prisoners had the right to conduct their own defence.- Where capital punishment was called for if an error was discovered before it was authorized then execution of the sentence was suspended pending a ruling. 19. The total number of persons tried and sentenced for serious offences, in 1989 was 481,658. That total comprised all prison sentences and death sentences. Questions had been asked about the system of reform through labour and rehabilitation through education. The Chinese reform organs were national organs, dealing with criminals in all sentence categories. The Government was strongly opposed to torture, and to all forms of cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment. Consequently, prisoners' legitimate rights were protected under Chinese law. The purpose of the law was not merely to impose a punishment, but to combine punishment and reform, with the emphasis on the latter, so that criminals might be turned into law-abiding citizens. The Government attached importance to criminals' welfare. Thus they received medical care and were given the healthy environment they needed. Their daily and medical expenses were met by the State, on the basis of the standards applicable in enterprises. Criminals benefited from the same level of labour protection as workers in enterprises. They were provided with bedding and facilities appropriate to the season, and with accommodation of not less than three square metres per person. In the event of sickness, they received medical treatment and pharmaceutical products free of charge. Prisoners received 'a monthly allowance, and if they fulfilled their production quota, they received a bonus. Bonuses were also available to those demonstrating technical knowledge. Prisoners worked an eight-hour day and were not required 
**Analysis**
The text appears to be discussing the legal and social systems of China, specifically the treatment of prisoners and the goals of the criminal justice system. It highlights the emphasis on rehabilitation and the provision of basic needs such as healthcare, education, and welfare. This suggests that the text is more focused on the social and humanitarian aspects of China's system, rather than purely economic or industrial matters.

**Category**
Health, Education, Humanitarian aid and relief