China warns officials against wasting govt funds on New Year

China today warned Communist Party and government officials against using public funds on recreational activities like parties, banquets, travels and gifts during the upcoming New Year and Spring Festival celebrations.
A circular issued by the general offices of the ruling Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and the State Council urged officials to observe the party's discipline and government provisions against wastefulness.
Officials must not use public funds on banquets, luxury recreational activities, New Year cards, fireworks, and private trips, state-run Xinhua news agency reported.
The officials are encouraged to visit poor areas and ensure timely distribution of allowances to residents affected by natural disasters, low-income families, the disabled and the elderly who lack family support, the circular said.

The central authorities asked local governments to step up inspections on hazardous facilities such as oil and natural gas pipelines, mines, construction sites, and fireworks factories.
Efforts should be made to stabilise consumer prices and ensure a stable supply of power and daily necessities, it said.
Campaigns shall be waged to crack down on violence and precautions taken to prevent terrorist attacks, the circular said.
China has prosecuted many top officials of the CPC and thousands of middle and low ranking bureaucrats under the anti-corruption campaign launched by President Xi Jinping after taking over in 2013.