Protecting interests of tour guides

A TOUR GUIDE in Southwest China's Yunnan province, who was videoed verbally abusing tourists on a bus after she failed to persuade them to buy more souvenirs at scenic spots on April 12, was deprived of her license on Sunday. Comments:

The incredibly rude guide has paid the price for trying to force tourists to spend more. But like many colleagues, she is also a victim of the illegal operations of her employer, who intentionally attracted tourists with low prices then encouraged them to buy goods during the trip. The sacking of a single guide will not prevent similar curses befalling travelers, unless the tourism watchdogs at all levels enforce fair and legal operations among travel agencies.

Wang Shichuan, a guest commentator with Jiaxing Daily, May 4