A lawmaker called for legislation against domestic violence to protect battered women and said abusers often go unpunished because specific laws and penalties are lacking.

Mao Yu'e, a judge and a deputy to the National People's Congress, said legislation was sorely needed. The legal system, however, does not contain a specific definition of domestic violence and says nothing about penalties, the deputy from Guangdong Province told lawmakers.

He blamed the high incidence of domestic violence partly on lack of a strong law. The All-China Women's Federation says a 2004 survey showed that one-third of the nation's 270 million married women suffered domestic violence.

Mao said the legislature should refine the current marriage law by adding detailed articles on anti-domestic violence. He called for a special law or regulations against domestic violence.

Meanwhile, a political advisor said courts should take into consideration the so-called battered-woman syndrome when abused women attack or kill their abusers. This is important in passing a fair sentence, said Cao Suying of Hebei Province.

Victims of long-term abuse may become psychologically damaged, said Cao.