Criminal policy provides the essential spirit of the criminal law：it is the true guidance for the criminal justice system.China is now introducing the criminal policy of balancing leniency and severity in sentences.This requires criminal justice institutions to differentiate between the relevant circumstances of each case，to apply punishment proportionately to the crime，to soften harshness with leniency and vice versa，to strike a balance between the two in accordance with the law.Introducing the policy of balancing leniency and severity，can help to curb，prevent and reduce crimes，help to resolve social problems，diminish social confrontation，and promote the establishment of a harmonious society.The criminal policy of balancing leniency and severity is a basic policy approach to be followed now.It is expected to have a positive impact on criminal legislation，justice and to advance China’s on-going reforms.