Ban to build better image

The five-year ban China's new leadership has imposed on the construction of new Party and government buildings shows its determination to promote frugality, maneuver a change in working style and refresh the public image of the Party and government.

According to a directive jointly issued by the general offices of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and the State Council, all levels of the Party and government departments should not construct new buildings, including hotels and training centers, in the next five years. The construction, purchase, renovation and expansion of office compounds in the name of building repairs or urban planning are also forbidden. It also demands that any expenditures on renovating office buildings be included in the department budgets made public at the end of every year.

At the same time, the directive bans Party and government organizations from receiving any form of sponsorship or donations from the construction industry, or cooperating with enterprises in developing construction projects.