Li turns to blunt words condemning policy delays

Premier Li Keqiang has used unusually harsh words to target redundant procedures that have delayed the implementation of policies.

At a State Council executive meeting on Wednesday, he called for greater administrative streamlining and for the delegation of power - crucial elements of reform.

"Some policies that were approved by executive meetings of the State Council cannot be implemented in a timely fashion as they were held back by lower-ranking functionaries (in ministries)," Li said, according to the council's website on Thursday.