Man burns himself to death due to divorce
(China Daily)
Updated: 2006-01-13 05:59

Civil servants told to brush up on Mandarin

Hunan is planning to introduce a law to mandate all civil servants to speak putonghua (standard Chinese).

Those who fail putonghua examinations will not be promoted, and may even be removed from their posts.

If the law is approved, the province will be the first to enforce such a law. The law was planned after the authorities received many complaints about civil servants with poor language skills.

Xiaoxiang Morning Post

Man burns himself to death due to divorce

A 41-year-old man from Wuchang, Hubei Province, has committed suicide by burning himself to death.

Neighbours said that the man became hugely upset when his wife and son moved out after she demanded a divorce. He loved his family very much and was unhappy being alone.

However, neighbours were shocked by the nature of his suicide, which he did in public outside his home. He doused himself in petrol, and then set himself alight.

Chutian Metropolis News

Boarding cyber caf causes parental fury

A cyber caf has created controversy in Changsha, capital of Hunan Province, after offering accommodation to young gamers who want to stay overnight.

The caf even locked its doors after 10 pm to prevent parents from looking for their children. Many parents have complained that online gaming is damaging their children's health.

The boss of the caf said that he never forces the children to visit, but said he has seen brisk business since offering accommodation.

Sanxiang Evening News

Beggar earns penny by holding advertising board

A beggar in Wuhan, Hubei Province, has won praise for his enterprising spirit. He walks up and down the street, with a begging bowl in one hand, and an advertising board in another.

He is paid 10 yuan each day by the advertiser, a local household appliance retailer, to hold the board and walk up and down busy streets.

Chutian Metropolis News

Bald head holds minimal appeal for advertisers

An enterprising young man from Changsha, Hunan Province, has been offering his bald head for advertising.

Everyday the man walks around the area in front of the bus station with a board advertising his head. He charges 150 yuan(US$18) each day.

He has failed to attract a single client so far.

Xiaoxiang Morning Post

(China Daily 01/13/2006 page5)