As Beijing’s austerity drive intensifies, interviews and social media posts reveal that certain Chinese state servants have been told not to eat out in groups of more than three following deaths connected to excessive alcohol consumption at banquets.
The May revisions to the austerity rules, which were aimed at public sector employees and members of the Communist Party, now forbid extravagant parties, “white elephant” building projects, opulent automobile accessories, and decorative plants during meetings.
The current assault, according to analysts, indicates that prior measures were ineffective and is a reflection of President Xi Jinping’s continuing concern with anti-corruption and Party discipline.
