China intensifies audits to combat extravagance

BEIJING - China's top auditing body said Wednesday that it will intensify audits of fiscal funds as part of government efforts to reduce extravagance.

The National Audit Office (NAO) has ordered local authorities to prioritize the auditing of funds appropriated for government departments at all levels for meetings, receptions, international travel and vehicle purchases, the office said.

A meeting of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee last month resulted in the issuance of eight requirements for officials that are intended to reduce excessive spending.

The NAO said it has made a detailed plan to check government departments in order to implement the requirements.

The NAO said it will investigate losses of fiscal funds and state-owned assets.