RTR2Y43M.jpg (Photo : Reuters)
The central authority has issued a decree banning private clubs in China's historical buildings, parks and other public spaces, according to China.org.
The decree, issued on Monday by the Communist Party of China Central Committee and the State Council, seeks to further the regulation against hedonism and excessive lifestyle of public officials, the report said. The proclamation was jointly conceived by 10 different ministries.
According to the decree's guideline, private clubs set up in historical buildings and parks have harmed public interests, encouraged corruption and incited strong discontent among citizens. Public outrage over such establishments, often built in historic spaces, has grown over the years as reports of public funds being used to set up the establishments have surfaced.
Officials found guilty of violating the decree will be held liable for their negligence and misconduct, according to the report, adding that public resources for historical sites and parks must be strictly monitored.
Among those specified as prohibited from opening in the specified spaces are high-end restaurants, gymnasiums, spas and hotels. Meanwhile, membership-only clubs that are already in existence will be closed down.
The ruling party, under the leadership of President Xi Jinping, has put in place other specific measures to fight the widespread corruption and indulgence among public officials. It has banned luxury banquets, flower arrangements in meeting rooms, expensive liquor, delicacies such as shark fin and luxurious gifts during events.
The government has also prohibited the use of public funds by officials in joining costly training programs such as EMBA courses in order to establish ties with businessmen. Further, the government has issued rules on monitoring spending in the military.
