Watchdogs uncover many instances of official misconduct

Disciplinary watchdogs nationwide have exposed scores of official misconduct cases, ranging from lavish dinners paid for with public funds to misuse of military vehicle license plates, which experts say shows the government is serious about rectifying long-neglected undesirable behavior.

A deputy-provincial-level official in Heilongjiang province was demoted and his membership in the Communist Party of China was put on a yearlong probation after he was found responsible for the death of a person who accompanied him at a banquet, China Central Television reported on Saturday. Excessive drinking had led to the death.

Also punished during the government campaign in the province were 431 civil servants who were found in violation of government and Party regulations.