Religious affairs official expelled from CPC

Zhang Lebin, former deputy head of the State Administration for Religious Affairs, was expelled from the Communist Party of China (CPC) for "disciplinary violations".

The Central Commission for Discipline Inspection (CCDI) of the CPC said on its website that after investigation it found that Zhang had formed cliques in violation of the party's rules.

Zhang took advantage of his position and influence to seek benefits for others and accepted cash and gifts, perhaps in breach of the Criminal Law, Xinhua reported.

The decision to expel Zhang from the CPC and his removal was approved by the CPC Central Committee and the State Council.

His illicit earnings will be confiscated and his case passed on to the the judicial organs, the statement said.