IT HAS BEEN suggested by some that the anti-corruption campaign has contributed to the slowing of the Chinese economy, and instead of curbing corruption it is only necessary to keep it within a "reasonable limit" as this will help stimulate the economy. That's nonsense because sustainable prosperity can never be based on corruption, said China Youth Daily on Tuesday:

Is the anti-graft storm a drag on the economy? It has hit luxurious clubs and sales of high-end wines, even luxurious cars, as officials that used to lead luxurious lifestyles funded by public or illicit money, no longer dare to do so, which means a cold winter for these luxurious goods.

That officials are no longer spending extravagantly has darkened the economic data in certain areas, for which reason many claim that anti-graft campaign is curbing growth.