Less red tape to cut space for corruption

IN A RECENT CONFERENCE ON further simplifying administrative procedures, Premier Li Keqiang criticized some government agencies for their bureaucratic working style and vowed to change the situation. Comments:

Why do some government agencies insist on complicated paperwork procedures even though they can be simplified? Because there are interests hidden behind these procedures. With power in hand, officials can force people to pay a service fee or even a bribe. Wei Pengyuan, a middle-ranking official from the National Development and Reform Commission, was suspected of having received 200 million yuan ($32.22 million) in bribes only because his hand was on the stamp that permitted the opening of coal mines. It's essential to put power in a cage.

China Youth Daily, May 8