State to Guarantee Basic Urban Living Standards
The Ministry of Civil Affairs plans to accelerate the establishment of a minimum living standard system for Chinese urban dwellers.
The system, an essential part of the comprehensive social security network, will be carried out at a crucial point in the reform of state-owned enterprises and will have a dramatic impact on unemployment and social stability, according to a circular issued by the ministry.
The ministry noted that the system should be established in most cities no later than the end of June this year, with the deadline being postponed to the end of this October.
The circular stressed that establishment of the system is a realistic measure to be carried in line with the needs of economic development and minimum living standards. It notes that priority should be given to laid-off workers and retirees.
The nationwide social security system should absorb more educated staffers with a sense of responsibility and more regulations are needed to ensure that the system functions effectively, according to the circular.
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