China mulls change to officials' welfare system

BEIJING - Chinese authorities are mulling changes to senior officials' welfare ranging from ceremonies to security guard service, according to a Thursday report from the Beijing Youth Daily.

The move follows a proposal raised by political advisor Ge Jianxiong in March at the annual session of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) National Committee, the country's top political advisory body.

At the session, Ge proposed revising the benefits for provincial-level officials and other senior leaders, as well as retired officials.

Ge, a member of the Standing Committee of the CPPCC National Committee, told the newspaper that he has received a reply from the department in charge of handling proposals.

He also proposed specifying which kinds of benefits should be lifelong for officials and whether officials may still enjoy privileges in retirement.