Beijing can't afford a slip in HK

NPC Standing Committee rules out 'civil nomination' for chief executive in 2017 election in special administrative region

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Let everyone feel the joy of paid vacation

In downtown Brussels, traffic is starting to pick up, and bars and restaurants in the Schumann area where European Union institutions are located are becoming crowded again as EU officials return to their offices after healing their weary minds during paid vacations. Even German Chancellor Angela Merkel, UK Prime Minister David Cameron and other top politicians took time out from their schedules despite their heavy responsibilities, including the fight over seats in the ongoing EU leadership transition, worsening security situation and the bleak economic growth prospects.

A critical decision to make

WITH THE NATIONAL PEOPLE'S CONGRESS Standing Committee (NPCSC) having made its decision regarding the reform blueprint for the 2017 election of Hong Kong's Chief Executive, clear parameters have finally been established for the introduction of universal suffrage in the special administrative region (SAR).

Ban cigarette ads in all forms

THE STANDING COMMITTEE OF THE NATIONAL People's Congress is debating whether the Advertisement Law should be amended to ban all cigarette ads. Although the existing law bans all forms of cigarette ads in the media, it is not all pervasive because placards and posters promoting cigarettes can be displayed in restaurants and other public places. Some NPC Standing Committee members have proposed that the law be amended to ban all forms of cigarette ads, both indoors and outdoors.

Whither goes the anti-graft drive

Where is China's anti-corruption campaign headed? Will there be more of the same or will it lead to a revamp in governance? Discussions on these questions have gained strength since former national security chief Zhou Yongkang was put under investigation on charges of corruption.

A chip of the old block in the new age

Chinese Damas are often mocked for their investment naivety, poor fashion taste and disregard for public etiquette. But do they deserve such treatment when social values, moral codes and other aspects of life have been compromised in the pursuit of economic growth?

Do expats need pollution hazard pay?

As the smog problem in Beijing continues, though less intense than last winter, companies like Coca Cola China are offering "pollution hazard pay" to expatriates in the city. Such extra pay highlights the perceived problems of living in Beijing that include pollution, traffic and food safety.

Letters

US should stop backing Japan

From the Chinese press

Tuhao for want of a better word

You can't expect di Maria to transform United - van Gaal

Dutchman says expensive recruit not going to solve all of team's problems

Platini says he won't run against Blatter

Michel Platini won't fight Sepp Blatter for the FIFA presidency, though he still hopes somebody will.