Government Spending Cuts Strike the Right Chord

China's state council has ordered all government departments to cut spending by 5 percent this year in order to free up money for reconstruction in the earthquake areas.

The money will help to finance a rebuilding plan worth of some 10 billion US dollars following the Sichuan earthquake, which killed tens of thousands of people last week.

The decision calls on government departments at all levels to reduce costs for meetings, trips and public vehicles as well as construction on government office buildings.

An article carried by the English newspaper China Daily comments that the state council's decision sets a good example for the local governments and the general public.

It says much more money is still needed to help the homeless return to a normal life despite the current flood of donations.

The commentary also mentions that detailed spending cuts should be made and published. Once the central government's specific measures are released, it will be easier for local governments to follow suit.

The paper says the need to earnestly implement the state council's decision will expedite the reconstruction in the quake-hit areas. It's also expected to ensure sustainable development in the nation.