From Chinese Press

Prices haven't been controlled

(China Daily)
Updated: 2010-11-26 09:14

The government has announced that it will take measures to control rising prices. But it has to do more than that to win the confidence of the people, says an article in Guangzhou Daily. Excerpts:

The National Development and Reform Commission said recently that it would control rising prices and ensure stability. That is welcome news. But the claim needs proof.

We need adequate data to see whether prices have actually been controlled. Government officials and people differ when it comes to prices. What for officials is affordable or stable price can be high for most of the people around the country.

The National Statistical Bureau has said that the consumer price index rose by 4.4 percent in October, the highest in 25 months.

So when the National Development and Reform Commission says "stability", does it mean prices will stay at the current levels, or does it imply they will rise at the same rate? The tragedy is that in both cases ordinary people will suffer.

Ever since prices began increasing last year, several government officials have said that measures will be taken to control them. But the fact is prices are still rising.

What the officials need to do is set clear targets for themselves and make every possible effort to achieve them in time if they want to win back the trust of the people.