<P> While critics may be skeptical of whether the new enactments clarifying the issue of collective ownership will make a difference, such changes are still welcomed as signs of increasing protection for the rural villagers . </P> <P> Another issue is the problem of rampant corruption arising from rural land transactions, involving both governmental and non-governmental parties . This leads to over-pricing and also improper use of land that goes unchecked . </P> <P> With the passing of the Property Law, a number of local legislators fear that "while the new property law would undoubtedly increase protection for home owners and prevent land seizures, it would also erode China's socialist principles ." The insistence on socialist values among some of the Chinese ruling elite raises questions on whether China--an emerging world superpower--intends to open its doors fully to the Western world and ideas of free - market liberalism, or whether it will continue to differentiate itself in such matters . </P> <P> The Chinese government, while liberalizing its property laws, has still preserved its right to reclaim any property from an individual, as long as there is a public policy consideration . In 2004, it amended its 1982 Constitution to include that the Government has to pay the person compensation for expropriation (征收) or requisition (征用). However, the article neither provides, either in the constitution or in any subsidiary legislation, for the quantum of the payment, nor does it stipulate that the payment must be proportional to the size of the land . This has led to abuse by government bodies, especially in rural areas . Expropriation of land from farmers is the most frequent cause of complaint among farmers . However, in 2011, the Chinese Government released regulations clarifying this, which promise to provide more transparency and a fairer compensation system . </P>

Who controls who may own land houses farms etc in the state in socialism