China bans extravagant galas, Warns for erring officials

China today banned holding extravagant official galas and warned that those who violate the directive will be punished.
All the areas and departments should bring luxurious and extravagant galas to a halt and encourage frugal event planning, a notice jointly issued by ruling Communist Party of China (CPC), which has launched an austerity campaign, said.
No government funds should be used to hold commercial galas or invite expensive entertainers.
Funds from state-owned enterprises should not be used to give a boost to stars, state-run Xinhua news agency reported.
Galas, especially those organised with public funds that are held just to show off grand scenery, staging or extravagant production elements, have damaged the image of the CPC and the government, triggering public complaint, the notice said.

It also called for the strengthened supervision and inspection of galas, budget control and strict auditing. Those that cost large amounts of money and create waste will be severely punished, it said.
The move was part of austerity measures brought about by President Xi Jinping after he took over in March this year banning luxury dinners and alcohol in official and military dinners, which critics say were not seriously implemented.
The CPC recently imposed a five year ban on the construction of new official buildings.