The SARS scare months ago got the whole nation thinking seriously about health care. In order to protect people from infectious diseases in crowded places, the Ministry of Culture has issued new rules governing places like night clubs, karaoke halls and Internet cafes.

The new regulations, which give the public an unprecedented say on the opening of entertainment places across China, came into effect on September 1, 2003. Citizens also enjoy a veto on any decision made relating to these businesses.

Zhang Xinjian, deputy director of Market Department of Ministry of Culture, said: "The new regulation makes sure the public is informed on all measures related to entertainment places. The public will also have their say on whether or not to grant licenses to such places. If a business is in the neighborhood of a residential area, local residents can share worries over safety and disturbance with related departments. And these departments must respect their concerns."

Departments responsible for licensing entertainment places must now publicize information on the licensees, such as their name and address, and the scope and field of their business. The new regulation is expected to better respect and protect public well－being. And local administrative departments will be better monitored by the public.

(CCTV.com September 3, 2003)