Wang Zhongyu, state councilor and secretary-general of the State Council, made the remark during a recent discussion with provincial and ministerial-level officials who attended a course in Beijing on administering according to law.

Wang, also president of the State Administrative College, pointed out governments of all levels had made marked progress in this area in recent years. However, much work still needed to be done for further achievements.

Some problems like failure to fully observe or enforce laws already enacted, abuse of power, violation of the law by people in charge of executing it and bending the law for personal consideration, still existed in some localities, Wang said.

He urged officials and cadres at all levels and public servants to study and act conscientiously according to the "Three Represents" and improve their understanding of the concept of administering according to law.

Wang also called for measures to promote the reform of administrative management systems and speed up the transfer of government functions, to build a clean, diligent, pragmatic and efficient government that follows the requirements of democracy and rule of law.

(Xinhua News Agency September 16, 2002)