China bans shark fin dishes at official banquets

Written by:
Hans Kruit, 9 December 2013

In the latest crackdown on extravagance and waste, authorities in China are banning shark fin and bird's nest soup from official receptions.
The official Xinhua news agency says cigarettes and expensive alcoholic drinks are also being banned from official receptions.

The new rules are detailed in a document issued by the Communist Party's Central Committee and the State Council.
"Shark fins, bird nests and products of rare, wild animals are popular materials in luxury dinners in China," Xinhua quotes the document as saying.

"Officials on business tours should arrange their own meals according to relevant expenditure standards."
China's President Xi Jinping has made significant efforts to address growing public anger at illegal or unethical behaviour by party officials, especially those with flamboyant lifestyles which are often seen as a sign that they are corrupt.

Since taking office in March, he has called corruption a threat to the Party's survival and a number of government officials and executives of top companies have been detained over corruption allegations.
Authorities have also issued directives aimed at curbing extravagance, including cutting personal use of government vehicles and banning staff sending New Year cards at public expense.

Xinhua says the latest document says that officials below provincial level cannot stay in suites when on business trips, while their hosts are banned from giving them cash, souvenirs or local products as gifts.
Holding conferences at tourist attractions will be banned and officials will not be given welcoming ceremonies at airports or stations.

Xinhua says there will be increased scrutiny to make sure the rules are followed.

Hans
source: ABC.net