(ECNS) -- Branches or local news bureaus of press organizations cannot engage in commercial operations such as publishing, advertising sales or founding new business entities, according to a draft rule from China's top media watchdog, the State Administration of Press, Publication, Radio, Film and Television.
The regulation aims to improve management of regional offices at news agencies, requiring them to focus on news interviews and reporting, said officials, who are also soliciting public opinion.
It defines regional news agencies as branches or websites set up by newspapers, publishing houses, news agencies, radio stations, news websites, Internet radio or TV stations outside their registered places.
Key websites run by central news agencies can start local channels and websites, the draft said. But those without authorization cannot set up regional agencies or take part in reporting or interviews. Besides, local employees at news agencies cannot conduct interviews until local agencies receive approval to operate.
News institutions or local agencies may face a fine of 30,000 yuan ($4,425) and also be disciplined with a warning.
Regional news agencies or branches will be banned from setting up affiliated institutions, employing staff members, or giving journalists operational tasks. Government officials cannot take part-time jobs in local news agencies, the draft added.
In addition, journalists and editors cannot take advantages of their position to make illegal profit. Violators who are a "serious bad influence" can be punished through the legal system, according to the draft.
