[JURIST] China's government continued its campaign against corrupt public officials [JURIST news archive] Sunday by unveiling a set of new rules aimed at ensuring the integrity of public servants. The proposed 55-article regulation will take effect on June 1. The articles authorize reprimanding, demoting, and firing public officials who commit a variety of offenses, including failing to perform the duties of the position in a timely or effective manner; causing funds to be embezzled or stolen; and using political influence to obtain jobs for mistresses. The regulations also authorize punishment for personal conduct such as failing to support elderly family members, engaging in the sex trade, and using drugs. Xinhua has more.

In March, Chinese Chief Justice Xiao Yang told the latest annual session of the National People's Congress, China's parliament, that nine high-ranking Chinese officials were convicted by courts in 2006 [JURIST report] as a result of China's ongoing anti-corruption campaign.