Both criticism and praise for banquet rule

THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT in Tongjiang county, Sichuan province in Southwest China, has issued a circular informing local residents that only wedding and funeral banquets, and birthday banquets for seniors at the age of 70 or above, are permitted. Comments:

Although this circular may be intended to stop the prevalence of extravagant banquets, it is doubtful whether it will be effective given that it runs counter to local custom. Besides, in some people's opinion, the circular should only apply to official banquets.

West China City Daily, Aug 5