'... this 484-page masterpiece leaves the reader in awe. It was not only time but also firm resolution that were required in massive doses to obtain the documentary sources on which this book is based. Besides almost no other work on detention in China has reached the same level of scholarly and intellectual rigour. This book has made an enduring contribution to our knowledge of one of the most important, yet least known sectors of Chinese law. This is essential reading for scholars of Chinese law, contemporary China, NGO personnel, teachers and sociologists of law.' China Information 'Biddulph adopts a fresh approach to administrative detention. ... The information and its analysis significantly enlarge our knowledge of the areas of detention, police studies and China's legal and political transition. ... the book brings really significant empirical and methodological contributions to the study of China's legal, social, historical and political development. Readers interested in methodological considerations may find the introductory and conclusion chapters particularly revealing, and experts in China's law, police and detention studies will find a number of illuminating insights in the substantive chapters of this rigorous and remarkable book.' The China Quarterly 'Biddulph has made a useful contribution to comprehending the complexity of the problems that face both law reformers and the wielders of the powers that they would constrain.' The China Journal
