Zhu lays down law on changes
Zhu Rongji yesterday warned officials not to pay lip-service to the restructuring programme approved by the National People's Congress.
Chairing his first full Cabinet meeting, Mr Zhu said officials must adhere to the programme and be firm in its implementation.
He warned them against 'just shifting power between offices' and said the bureaucracy must be cut back as planned.
Regions should accelerate their own restructuring plans while the central Government must complete the downsizing this year.
Mr Zhu also stressed the economic growth rate this year must be eight per cent with inflation kept below three per cent.
The yuan must be kept stable, he said.
He further stamped his authority on the new Government by laying down 'five commandments' for ministers to follow.
They were told to remember they were public servants, that they must speak the truth, never be afraid to offend others, live honest lives and work hard.
Mr Zhu, who has earned a reputation for his tough attitude, also laid down three 'don'ts' for them.
They should not take huge entourages with them when they went on provincial inspection tours.
They must also stop holding long meetings or mixing business with sightseeing.
Lastly, Mr Zhu said all State Council leaders must stop attending social functions such as ribbon-cutting ceremonies to concentrate on national affairs.
