Sales of "golden books" on Chinese market, including books made of gold foils or platinum and gilded books, have aroused public concern that such books may be used as a means of bribery.

"It caters to the unhealthy tendency of conspicuous consumption in the first place. In addition, it tends to be used as a disguised means of bribery," said Chen Shuyu, a member of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference.

"Golden books" on the market, with subjects ranging from biography, articles and handwritings of famous Chinese leaders, to sutra, are priced all above 10,000 yuan (1,250 U.S. dollars).

"According to a news report, a real estate developer in Guangzhou bought 15 such books as gifts to government officials during the Spring Festival," said Chen. "That's bribery in disguise."

Some government offices also purchased such books using public money, said Chen. "What's it for? For bribery apparently."

He called on the state press administration to forbid the publication of "golden books" and advised the discipline inspection department to forbid government departments from purchasing such books.

"Those who buy such books at public expense must be severely punished," he suggested.

Source: Xinhua