Pingnan implements rules banning official extravagance

( chinadaily.com.cn )

Updated: 2014-02-17

Zheng Changjian, head of Guixi village, Pingnan county, recently welcomed visiting officials but apologized to them as he saw them off, as he was unable to offer them dinner.

Last December, Pingnan introduced regulations concerning governmental departments using public funds for banquets, gifts or other entertainment – and the officials are not entitled to a reimbursement for their meals, but should instead have meals at canteens.

Village leaders who travel for work matters can receive 20 yuan for each meal - and they must also follow a special procedure if they organize a reception, including written evidence concerning the menu, the purpose of the reception and the number of people involved.

Officials will be required to pay the costs if they do not follow the rules and they can also be prosecuted according to the law. In addition, the Commission for Discipline Inspection is expected to participate in the supervision of various units.

Edited by Wang Yifei and Niva Whyman