Departments and ministries under the State Council, China's Cabinet, have responded to a series of public concerns in the past week, including increasing the retirement age, food safety and security, and flight delays during the summer flood season, and management of academic misconduct.

A spokesman for the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security said at a news conference on July 22 that increasing the age of retirement would have limited influence on employment and would not reduce individuals' pensions. Progressively increasing the retirement age through gradual adjustments will make a difference among various groups of people, he said.

The China Food and Drug Administration has issued a warning on food safety during the summer flood season. Since the beginning of the season, some provinces have suffered from severe flooding, which has impacted regular food production and supply to varying degrees. The administration has warned consumers to keep food clean and be aware of correct food storage procedures. If consumers find out about illegal food production and sales or suffer from food poisoning after dining out, they have been advised to report the issue to the local food and drug administrative authorities and seek treatment at a hospital, if applicable.