The government has taken a further step to bring local media under the supervision of the public, by publishing the names and addresses of the staff of local branches of all newspapers.

Some media employees have become involved in illegal activities using the name of their newspaper, which has marred the reputation of Chinese media.

Last year, authorities published a series of regulations concerning media employees, and some local reporters were punished in accordance with the law.

According to Li Dongdong, deputy director of the State Press and Publishing Administration, press and publishing administrations at different levels are currently renewing newspaper employee registrations.

Local branches of newspapers that have been involved in illegal activities will be shut down and individuals who are not eligible to work in a newspaper will be dismissed, the official said.

Netizens can surf "press.gapp.gov.cn" to check the names of staff in any media organization.

(Xinhua News Agency July 9, 2007)