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Reform eases public concern

(China Daily)
Updated: 2007-03-07 06:59

Ordinary people have already begun feeling the benefits of reform.

Some commentators have said the government's change of function from "investment" to "public service" was working in many small ways.

Many NPC deputies and CPPCC members found that local governments were spending more on public wellbeing, such as employment, education, healthcare and housing.

For example, this year, Beijing will resume its tuition grants for students, and poor students will get unconditional financial aid. Their drinking water and shower needs will also get funded.

In Shanghai, the local government set up an emergency call system for 20,000 senior citizens living alone, provided community care for 130,000 more and built 20 daytime service centers.

(China Daily 03/07/2007 page5)