Improving welfare of low income groups be priority of 2012

Despite the advances made by China over recent years, a large proportion of the population remain on a relatively low income. The recently concluded Central Economic Work Conference has decided that improving the wellbeing and living standards of low income groups will be a priority for 2012. CCTV reporter Nie Jia went to meet some of the people at the poorer end of Chinese society, to learn more about their circumstances, and ask them what they're expecting from the government.

It is already past noon.

But Gao Dianli and his wife cannot afford a decent meal. As usual, their lunch consists of bread and boiled cabbage.

Gao has been unemployed for nearly two years. The couple now lives in a single room with a floor space of only 10 square meters.

Gao Dianli said, "I lost my job last May, and still haven't found another job. We're now living in my friend's room. My wife works to support us. I often feel guilty."

Gao's wife, Guo Xiuzhen, is a salesperson in a grocery store. She earns a meager 11 hundred yuan, or 160 USD per month. It's the couple's only income.

They've decided not to have children, as they can't afford to.

And as Chinese lunar new year approaches, they'll not be heading to their hometown to see their parents -- the train fare would cost half their monthly income.

For a poor family like this, every cent matters.

"I am not planning to go back to my hometown. I haven't gone back for five years. I miss my parents very much, and they often call me say how much they miss me." Gao said.

They're pleased the government is determined to raise low incomes. But to them, help still seems a long way off.

They're hoping for more concrete steps to help struggling families improve their lives.

"I've been in Beijing almost 20 years. None of my previous employers have signed a formal labor contract with me. I hope the government can strengthen legal protection for migrant workers in the city, so we're covered by social insurance. I also hope I can get a low rent home next year so I don't have to live in other people's houses." Said Gao.

Guo Xiuzhen said, "My husband and I do not have a good education. I hope the government can provide more job training programs for people like us, so that our skills can be improved and wages increased."

One of the highlights of this year's Central Economic Work Conference was the decision to spur domestic demand by improving the livelihood of middle and low income groups.

The government says it's determined to continue controlling house prices, and reform China's wealth distribution system - in an effort to narrow the gap between rich and poor.