BEIJING -- The lawmakers on Saturday deliberated a draft amendment to the Seed Law in panel discussions, agreeing that the draft revision will help protect the farmers' interests and safeguard food security.

A draft amendment to the Seed Law was submitted to the bimonthly session of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress, the top legislature, for a second reading on Friday, suggesting removing barriers for applying for a seed production and trade license and a prudent attitude toward GM seeds.

The lawmakers also discussed proposals on reforming the drug examination and approval process aimed at promoting pharmaceutical innovation and quality by better incentivizing researchers, with many believing the changes are feasible.

Zhang Dejiang, chairman of the NPC Standing Committee, participated in the discussions.