China's cabinet to inspect policy implementation

BEIJING -- The State Council, China's cabinet, will dispatch eight inspection teams to check the implementation of its policies nationwide, said a statement here Saturday.

The inspection will last from June 25 to July 5 on policies launched by the State Council since July 2013.

Despite progress in the past year, many policies have not been fully carried out nor have they had the effects they should have, the statement said. The inspection teams will focus on 19 areas. Local governments found wanting will be held accountable.

The State Council warned that it will be "serious" about punishing the officials who have not fulfilled their duties. Those who are not willing to act for fear of making mistakes or who put off their work will be brought to book.

The inspectors are also tasked to find barriers against the implementation of policy and root out laziness and bureaucracy among officials.

With a smooth implementation of orders from the central to local levels, all decisions, policies and measures can be carried out and take effect as soon as possible, the statement said, adding that this will lay a solid foundation for steady economic growth and help realize this year's targets.

All local government and central government departments are asked to conduct internal inspections before the cabinet inspectors arrive.