THE weeklong 19th National Congress of the Communist Party of China (CPC) concluded in Beijing yesterday. The highest leading body of the CPC is the National Congress and the Central Committee elected by it.

Following are some basic facts about the CPC’s supreme leading body:

In line with the CPC Constitution, the National Congress is held every five years.

The functions and powers of the National Congress are as follows:

1) To hear and examine the report of the Central Committee;

2) To hear and examine the report of the Central Commission for Discipline Inspection (CCDI);

3) To discuss and decide on major questions concerning the Party;

4) To revise the CPC Constitution;

5) To elect the Central Committee; and

6) To elect the CCDI.

The 1st CPC National Congress was held in 1921, with 12 delegates representing about 50 CPC members nationwide.

When the National Congress is not in session, the Central Committee carries out its resolutions, directs the entire work of the Party and represents the CPC in its external relations.

When the Central Committee is not in session, the Political Bureau and its Standing Committee exercise the functions and powers of the Central Committee. (Xinhua)